Acclaimed chef returns to Celtic Manor with new concept
An acclaimed chef has made his return to an iconic Newport resort.
Larkin Cen, who reached the finals of MasterChef in 2013, is back at the Celtic Manor Resort, where his culinary journey began.
The Cardiff-born chef, who was originally trained as a lawyer, swapped the courtroom for the kitchen after his success on the BBC show.
He went on to open Cen at Celtic Manor Resort in 2016, a bold Asian dining concept that quickly earned recognition for its fusion of traditional Chinese flavours and contemporary flair.
Following a successful three years at the five-star resort, Larkin expanded his culinary vision by creating his own fast casual noodle and bao bar brand chain, now called XO.
He later appeared on The Great British Menu before returning to the Celtic Manor Resort in 2023 with The Monkey King, a pop-up dining experience inspired by the legendary Chinese novel Journey to the West.
Nearly a decade since his first venture at Celtic Manor, Larkin returns with a fresh new vision for his residency at the resort's renamed Asian restaurant – PAD by Larkin Cen.
Guests can look forward to a vibrant, refined menu, shaped by Larkin's journey from his parents' Chinese takeaway kitchen to national TV screens.
A standout feature of the new menu is the Legendary Peking Duck Experience (£60 per person), an indulgent celebration of Peking duck, where the whole duck is served and cooked classically.
The à la carte menu also showcases innovative Asian tapas, large plates and a Curries of Asia section plus set sharing menus offering diners the chance to sample a range of Larkin's signature dishes.
Chef Larkin Cen said: "Returning to Celtic Manor Resort feels like coming full circle.
"My vision has always been to take the traditional dishes I grew up with and elevate them into something beautiful, combining authenticity with creativity.
"This new menu is a celebration of classic Asian flavours, presented in a fresh and exciting way and served in the wonderful surroundings of the resort.
"I'm looking forward to returning to my roots and picking up where we left off."
Celtic Manor Resort operations director David Griffin added: "We're delighted to welcome back such a talented and inspiring chef and look forward to this exciting new chapter in our shared culinary journey with the launch of PAD by Larkin Cen.
"We know Larkin will create a truly special dining experience for our guests to enjoy."
Larkin's new menu is available at PAD by Larkin Cen, with dinner service available from 6pm to 9.30pm.
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