Meet Our Chef

Vanessa Marx 

“Food has the power to tell a story, change the energy, and connect people.

I cherish watching the seasons change in the UK, appreciating the incredible British produce and its growers.

In this new world, transparency and sustainability are the currency, and I'm excited to continue
this culinary journey at Bingham Riverhouse.”

Executive Chef Vanessa Marx is the latest in a line of visionary women to take a leadership role at Bingham Riverhouse. Passionate about the healing power of food and its fundamental role in wellness and sustainability, South African born Vanessa’s passion for cooking began with childhood memories of baking alongside her mother and the influential women in her life.

Having enrolled in the acclaimed Institute of Culinary Arts in Stellenbosch, Vanessa spent five years which she describes as ‘transformative,’ under the mentorship of dynamic and fearless Peter Goffe-Wood. During this time she discovered the boundless possibilities of the kitchen and began to cultivate the intricate art of wine pairing.

After relocating to London Vanessa worked at Vinoteca in Farringdon, experiencing early morning meat market visits, and embracing the challenge of creating dishes based on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients purchased the same day.

It was Vanessa’s return to South Africa where her journey continued collaborating with Ilze Koekemoer. Vanessa went on to co-found Dear Me Food World, a three-level culinary haven in Cape Town. Instigating a focus on the origin of produce and high-end menus adaptable to various dietary needs, after four years Vanessa earned the Eat Out Rising Star Award, propelling her career into television   appearances and guest judging on Celebrity MasterChef South Africa.

Later Vanessa became the Head Chef of Savages Fine Food: venturing into Launching her own catering and events business Culture Kitchen with her husband Mark, executing bespoke events nationwide. After five successful years, they opted for a new adventure – relocation to London. Despite the challenges of the Covid lockdown, the couple turned adversity into opportunity, establishing an outdoor café and launching a community-focused delivery business.

Seeking creative fulfilment, Vanessa joined Nomadic Dinners, reconnecting with her love for open fire cooking and foraging. This soon led her to Bingham Riverhouse, where she is infusing creativity into events and menus built on locally sourced, seasonal and organic produce to nourish and bring people together.

Keep up to date with Vanessa on Instagram.