Simon Lynch

Executive Chef | Tapas Specialist | Culinary Innovator

Born in Devon, England on June 30, 1981, Chef Simon Lynch discovered his passion for food early in life. By the age of 16, he had stepped into his first professional kitchen, earning his culinary qualifications in just two and a half years.

At 20, Simon took his craft international, crossing the Atlantic to join the kitchens of Disney’s EPCOT in the USA. There, he proudly showcased traditional British cuisine to a global audience—and it was in this vibrant, multicultural setting that he developed a deep appreciation for tapas-style dining.

Returning to the UK in 2004, Simon moved to Manchester, where he played a key role in launching Ink Brasserie, a pioneering dining concept that fused elevated cuisine with late-night entertainment, private dining, and live comedy. Rising quickly through the ranks from Sous Chef to Head Chef, Simon later took on a broader leadership role, training teams across major cities throughout England.

In 2010, Simon seized a long-held dream and joined Cunard Line aboard the legendary Queen Mary 2. There, he refined his expertise in intimate culinary experiences, delivering exclusive private cooking demonstrations for small groups of guests at sea.

A two-month break turned into a new chapter when Simon traveled to Asia. A chance encounter led to him heading up Tapeo, a contemporary Spanish tapas bar in Central and East Hong Kong. His talent and flair for bold, authentic flavors caught attention, and in 2016 he joined El Cerdo, helping to evolve the brand and bring genuine Spanish tapas to both locals and expats in Hong Kong.

Most recently, in 2024, Simon led the culinary vision for 1862 Bar de Tapas y Vino, located in the iconic Tai Kwun heritage site. With this project, he introduced a modern twist on traditional tapas, bringing elevated small plates and fine Spanish wines to the heart of Hong Kong.

From Devon to Disney, and from Manchester to Hong Kong, Chef Simon Lynch continues to blend tradition with innovation—crafting memorable culinary experiences that celebrate the spirit of sharing, bold flavors, and international inspiration.