Ewan Waller

Ewan Waller, as head chef at Maré by Rafael Cagali, champions a philosophy of "democratic haute cuisine," making Michelin-starred dining welcoming and accessible without prohibitive costs. His vision for Maré, translating to “tide” in Portuguese, is deeply rooted in seasonality and the abundant produce of Sussex and the surrounding coastline. This commitment to local sourcing ensures peak freshness and identity in every dish. Waller aims to offer an extraordinary dining experience that is "for everyone," believing that excellence is not defined by price, but by the ability to excite and warmly welcome guests, fostering a "pact of honesty with the customer." He consciously calibrates portions and costs to transform the Michelin experience into an everyday pleasure rather than an exclusive luxury, reflecting a "political vision behind the dish" that prioritizes substance, flavor, and guest satisfaction over pretension. Chef Ewan Waller’s technical mastery at Maré by Rafael Cagali is characterized by a precise balance between the sophisticated refinement of two-Michelin-starred Da Terra and the more relaxed, convivial spirit of its sister restaurant, Elis. His cooking style is a thoughtful expression of Rafael Cagali’s Brazilian-Italian heritage, combined with Waller’s world-class training and a strong emphasis on Sussex producers. He structures the menu to take diners on a journey, from delicate "small bites and snacks" to refined "crudo," substantial "larger plates," and innovative "desserts." Signature dishes such as the "Dorset crab crumpet," "aged sea bass crudo," "Freedown Hills picanha," and "baba au cachaça" exemplify his ability to blend technical precision with warmth and approachable flavors. This approach showcases serious technical quality and finesse, ensuring top-quality produce is handled with a "strong technique" and an "elegance of simplicity," all designed to deliver a unique and memorable dining experience.

Career

• Kitchen Staff (early career) at Pret A Manger, N/A
• Student at Westminster Kingsway College, London
• Stagiaire at Anglo, Farringdon
• Stagiaire at The Baptist Grill, Holborn
• Chef at The Silver Cup, Harpenden
• Commis Chef at Da Terra, Bethnal Green
• Chef de Partie at Da Terra, Bethnal Green
• Senior Chef de Partie at Da Terra, Bethnal Green
• Head Chef at Maré by Rafael Cagali, Hove

Mentored by Rafael Cagali.