Michael Blades has taken on the role of head chef at Upstairs by Tom Shepherd, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Lichfield, Staffordshire. Alongside his appointment, the restaurant has announced plans to open a second, more informal dining venue.
Blades has a longstanding history with Tom Shepherd, having known him for over a decade and been instrumental in supporting the launch of Upstairs by Tom Shepherd. Their collaboration proved successful, as the restaurant received a Michelin star only four months after opening.
Upstairs by Tom Shepherd was awarded Newcomer of the Year at the 2024 Cateys.
Before joining Upstairs by Tom Shepherd, Michael Blades worked as a commis chef at the two Michelin-starred Restaurant Sat Bains in Nottingham and later as junior sous chef at Adams in Birmingham.
As the new head chef at Upstairs by Tom Shepherd, Michael Blades will lead a brigade of 10 chefs. He will showcase a creative menu with dishes like Orkney scallop paired with peanut satay, radish, and coriander; Herefordshire beef complemented by garlic, tarragon, onion, and smoke; and the Great British Menu-inspired dessert, ‘No Ordinary Schoolboy’, featuring banana, rum, and caramel.
Shepherd revealed Blades’ promotion coincides with his plans to open a “second, more informal restaurant and bar”.
Tom Shepherd, beyond his work at Upstairs, collaborates with high-profile events including Experiences by Wembley Stadium, Royal Ascot, and Wimbledon. This involvement showcases his expertise in delivering fine dining experiences for prominent events.
Blades said: “I am so excited to take the helm at Upstairs, its reputation is world class, and I look forward to continuing the success with Tom and the team to deliver exceptional dishes that surprise and delight guests.”
Shepherd added: “Mike is an incredible chef and it’s an absolute pleasure to promote him to head chef at Upstairs. I’ve watched him hone his skills over time and I’m so proud and excited to see what the future holds. I’ve known Mike for many years and the time is right for a new challenge, he is so creative and I trust him implicitly. He leads from the front and I’m excited for the future.”
Upstairs by Tom Shepherd is above Shepherd’s father’s jewellery business in what was a disused attic space. Shepherd convinced his father to let him turn it into Upstairs.
After a 14-month renovation, Upstairs by Tom Shepherd now operates as an intimate 40-cover restaurant, complete with a chef’s table.
