Allister Barsby is a prominent British chef known for his modern, European-influenced cuisine. He owns the Hide and Fox restaurant in Saltwood, Kent, with his partner Alice Bussi. Under their leadership, the restaurant has won prestigious awards, including two Michelin stars and three AA Rosettes.
Born and raised in Whitstable, England, Allister Barsby began his career at the age of 14 working weekends at Wheeler's Oyster Bar. There, under the tutelage of Mark Stubbs, he developed a strong passion for fine food and rich flavors. He later honed his skills at Read's Restaurant in Faversham under the tutelage of David Pitchford. His dedication led him to work with internationally renowned personalities such as Michael Caines at the Gidleigh Park Hotel in Devon and Sam Moody at The Bath Priory, where he helped earn a Michelin star.
At the age of 24, Allister was appointed Head Chef at Gidleigh Park, retaining two Michelin stars and regaining his five AA Rosettes during his three years at the helm. In 2015, he was awarded the Caterer Acorn Award, a recognition for future stars in the industry. He then took on the executive role at the Grove of Narberth in Pembrokeshire, Wales, where he retained three AA Rosettes and opened a second eatery.
In 2019, he and Alice Bussi opened Hide and Fox in Saltwood, Kent. The latter offers a modern and elegant experience, with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients. In 2021, the latter received its first Michelin star and three AA rosettes. In 2025, it reached the coveted two Michelin star milestone, cementing its reputation as a culinary destination of excellence.
Allister's dishes incorporate elements of British tradition, modernized and enriched with European influences. He places particular emphasis on using the highest quality ingredients to create dishes that celebrate freshness. His creativity manifests itself in the constant evolution of the menus, offering guests new and exciting dining experiences.
