A Warm Welcome to Gary
The New Heart Behind Amber’s
Have You Met Gary Yet?
If you’ve recently dined with us at Amber’s, you may have already spotted a new (yet very familiar-feeling) face in the restaurant. We’re delighted to introduce Gary, our new Restaurant Manager, whose passion for hospitality runs deep—and whose love for a perfectly executed Yorkshire Pudding runs even deeper.
Gary brings a rich and varied career in hospitality, from the glamour of central London’s Peppermint Park and Coconut Grove to the historic elegance of Nidd Hall Hotel in Killinghall. But it all started, he says, with a dream at secondary school.
“I always wanted to be a restaurant manager,” Gary explains. “I love the buzz of a busy restaurant and making sure that all the guests’ needs and expectations are exceeded.”
His Take on the Perfect Dining Experience
For Gary, dining out isn’t just about the food, it’s about how it feels.
“People go to restaurants for the whole experience. That means delicious food, yes, but also a warm and friendly welcome. We want our guests to feel truly looked after, so much so that they can’t wait to come back.”
This philosophy is already shining through in Amber’s, where Gary leads the team with an eye for detail, a sense of pride, and a generous dose of Harrogate hospitality.
From Guest to Guide at Amber’s
Before his first day in the role, Gary came to Amber’s for dinner as a guest and it left a lasting impression.
“I can still remember the taste of every single mouthful of that exquisite meal,” he says. “The Yorkshire’s Own Pudding, the Easingwold Belly Pork, and the White Chocolate Marquis are my go-to recommendations for anyone who’s undecided.”
And now that he’s at the helm?
“I was warmly greeted by every single one of the restaurant team. I couldn’t have wished for a more professional, friendly, and attentive group. I’m excited to be leading a team that’s always striving for excellence. Amber’s is Harrogate’s hidden gem.”
Off the Clock with Gary
When Gary’s not orchestrating unforgettable evenings at Amber’s, you’ll find him indulging in two very different hobbies: tinkering with old cars and hitting the ski slopes.
“I like pottering about with old bangers, nothing fancy, just little things like replacing a wing panel or fitting a fan motor,” he says. “And skiing, there’s nothing like the rush of cold wind as you fly down a sunny, tree lined slope on your way to the next hot chocolate with a shot of brandy in it!”
And if Gary could invite anyone from history to dine with him at Amber’s?
“King Harold. Yes, that King Harold from 1066! Before the Battle of Hastings, he marched 185 miles from the south coast to Stamford Bridge in just four days to defeat a Viking army near York. He deserves a meal on me!”
Come Say Hello
Whether you’re joining us for the first time or returning for your favourites, Gary is ready to make your experience at Amber’s something special. Next time you visit, don’t be shy, say hello, and let him know if you need help choosing between the pork and the pudding. (He’ll say both.)
Get to know Gary in his own words, watch the video below to hear his story and what he loves about Amber’s.
