Matt Dowling (chef)
Matt Dowling | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1945 Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland |
| Occupation(s) | Head chef, culinary trainer |
| Years active | 1960–present |
| Known for | Head chef at Michelin-starred The Russell Hotel; culinary training at Failte Ireland |
Matt Dowling (born 1945 in Crumlin, Dublin) is an accomplished Irish head chef, recognized for steering the kitchen at the Michelin-starred The Russell Hotel in Dublin when it was awarded its star in 1974.
Dowling launched his culinary journey in 1960 as a kitchen assistant at The Russell Hotel. Through structured training, he progressed to become a qualified chef by 1965. He held the position of head chef at The Russell Hotel during the period it earned its Michelin star, just prior to the establishment’s closure.
After The Russell Hotel shut down, Dowling took on the role of head chef at the Sachs Hotel, remaining there for four years until that venue also ceased operations. Subsequently, he assumed the head chef position at Leinster House before joining a CERT training institution (now known as Failte Ireland) in 1980. Around 1978, he further refined his culinary expertise by attending advanced cookery courses conducted by Jimmy Kilbride.
Dowling broadened his professional scope by appearing on television programs such as Ready Steady Cook and Live at 3, utilizing these media appearances to promote his training initiatives and connect with aspiring chefs.
In 1978, he became a member of the Panel of Chefs Ireland, dedicating efforts to enhance chef professionalism and advance Irish gastronomy through competitive events. At Failte Ireland, Dowling frequently acts as a judge for culinary contests, including the Rotary Club Young Chef Competition.
Early in his career, while working as a commis chef, Dowling contributed to preparing the state banquet for US President John F. Kennedy’s visit to Ireland in 1963.
Awards
- 1974: Michelin star awarded to The Russell Hotel
- Silver medal earned with the Panel of Chefs at the Olympia contest
- Gold medal secured with the Panel of Chefs during a competition held in Germany
Personal
Dowling is married and has three children.