Scott John-Hodgson Named Executive Chef Across House of Tides and Solstice

Kenny Atkinson has handed Scott John-Hodgson the culinary lead across both of his Newcastle restaurants. John-Hodgson becomes executive chef at House of Tides and at Solstice, each of which holds a Michelin star.

Eight years, two kitchens

He arrived at House of Tides in 2018, the restaurant Kenny and Abbie Atkinson opened first, and worked his way up to sous chef. When Solstice was being set up in 2022 he joined that opening brigade, and the star followed inside eight months. He has run the Solstice kitchen as head chef ever since.

What changes

Day to day, the cooking in both kitchens is now his call. Atkinson keeps a hand in the food and stays present in both rooms, while freeing up time for growth, brand work and other projects across the group.

Speaking to Hospitality & Catering News, Atkinson called the promotion "thoroughly deserved" and said John-Hodgson "has been an integral part of what we've built here since the very beginning". John-Hodgson, in the same announcement, called the role "a real privilege" and added: "House of Tides is where it all started for me."

A late start

He grew up in Teesside and went to Liverpool John Moores University to study sports development, expecting to teach. Cooking came later, in his mid-twenties. This month he took the Restaurant Chef award at the Craft Guild of Chefs Awards, and he has cooked for the North East and Yorkshire on Great British Menu in 2024 and 2025.

Passing it on

The two restaurants share a teaching partnership with Newcastle College, with John-Hodgson and his brigades working alongside students and tutors. He also puts his own team forward for stages, outside qualifications and skills competitions. Follow his work via @scotthodgson91, @solstice_ncl and @houseoftides.

Frequently asked questions

Which restaurants does Scott John-Hodgson lead?

House of Tides and Solstice in Newcastle, each with one Michelin star.

What is Kenny Atkinson's role now?

He stays chef-owner and keeps shaping the food in both kitchens, with more time for the wider business.

When did Solstice win its Michelin star?

Within eight months of opening in 2022.

What did Scott John-Hodgson win this month?

The Restaurant Chef award at the 2026 Craft Guild of Chefs Awards.

Photo: via @scotthodgson91, shared with permission. Quotes and career details from the announcement published by Hospitality & Catering News.