Aberdeen is set to take centre stage this spring with an exceptional month-long programme of Michelin-starred dining, world-class live music and fundraising, as The Chester Hotel hosts a series of standout charity events in support of The JEllie Foundation.
Bringing together some of the UK’s most celebrated chefs and one of Britain’s biggest contemporary music stars, the programme begins with the highly anticipated return of the Signature Food Festival before culminating in a spectacular finale — the JEllie Foundation Music Evening, headlined by Tom Grennan, on Friday 20 March 2026.
The Signature Food Festival returns to The Chester Hotel
Running throughout early and mid-March, the Signature Food Festival once again welcomes an outstanding line-up of acclaimed Michelin-starred chefs to Aberdeen, offering a series of intimate, chef-led dining experiences that have become a highlight of the city’s culinary calendar.
Renowned for attracting leading names from across the culinary world, the festival celebrates exceptional talent, creativity and technique, while raising vital funds for local children’s charities.
Spectacular March line-up
Adam Byatt
Trinity, London
Friday 6 & Saturday 7 March
A master of modern British cuisine, Adam Byatt is chef-patron of Trinity, his Michelin-starred, three-rosette restaurant in London. Celebrated for his precision, technical mastery and ingredient-led approach, Adam has created one of the capital’s most respected dining destinations. Beyond Trinity, he serves as Chef Director of Food & Beverage at Brown’s Hotel, Mayfair, shaping one of London’s most historic luxury hotels through inventive and refined cooking.
Claude Bosi
Claude Bosi
Brooklands, London
Tuesday 10 & Wednesday 11 March
One of the most influential figures in modern French cuisine, Claude Bosi is renowned for his exquisitely balanced, expressive cooking. After earning widespread acclaim at Bibendum, he opened Brooklands at The Peninsula London, achieving two Michelin stars in its debut year — a rare and remarkable achievement. A favourite of the festival, Claude returns to Aberdeen following his acclaimed appearance in 2023.
Lisa Goodwin-Allen
Northcote, Lancashire
Friday 13 & Saturday 14 March
One of Britain’s most celebrated culinary talents, Lisa Goodwin-Allen became Executive Chef of Northcote at just 23, making her one of the youngest chefs ever to lead a Michelin-starred kitchen. A familiar face on Great British Menu and MasterChef: The Professionals, Lisa is renowned for her modern British, seasonal and ingredient-led cuisine and returns by popular demand.
Tickets are now on sale, with further details and online bookings available at www.signaturefoodfestival.co.uk.
Tom Grennan to headline the 2026 JEllie Foundation Music Evening
Bringing the spring programme to a spectacular close, the JEllie Foundation Music Evening takes place on Friday 20 March 2026 at The Chester Hotel, delivering an unforgettable night of live music, fine dining and fundraising.
Headlining the exclusive charity gala is Tom Grennan, one of the UK’s most exciting and distinctive contemporary artists. Since rising to prominence, Grennan has become a platinum-selling, chart-topping force, achieving multiple Top 10 singles, two UK Number One albums and cementing his reputation as one of the country’s most electrifying live performers. His powerful vocals, emotionally charged songwriting and commanding stage presence have earned headline tours, major award nominations and performances on some of the world’s biggest stages.
Graham Wood, co-founder of The JEllie Foundation, said: “We’re very grateful for the continued support that makes these world-class events in Aberdeen possible. From exceptional dining experiences to a show-stopping live music finale headlined by Tom Grennan, the programme helps us raise vital funds for local children’s charities while welcoming guests to enjoy these special moments at The Chester Hotel.”
Tom Grennan
JEllie Foundation Music Evening: An exclusive night of live entertainment
Joining Tom Grennan on the night is a line-up of returning favourites.
Madhen
Back by popular demand, Madhen return following their electric performance last year. Widely regarded as the UK’s best party band, their high-energy live shows guarantee an unforgettable atmosphere.
The Gypsy Queens
The internationally acclaimed Gypsy Queens also return. The original strolling band, they are renowned for their electrifying performances of timeless classics and have entertained royalty and shared stages with icons including Elton John.
Guests will enjoy a champagne reception, followed by a bespoke three-course dinner created by The Chester Hotel’s Head Chef Chris Gray and his talented team, inspired by standout dishes from previous Signature Food Festivals.
Music Evening Event Details
Event: Tom Grennan – The JEllie Foundation Music Evening
Date: Friday 20 March 2026
Time: Arrival drink from 6.30pm
Venue: The Chester Hotel, Queens Road, Aberdeen
Price: £2,000 per table of ten
A limited number of tables for the JEllie Foundation Music Evening are now available via www.signaturefoodfestival.co.uk.
Supporting local children’s charities
Since its launch in 2017, the Signature Food Festival and associated events have raised over £2.25million for children’s charities across the North-east of Scotland. Founded by Gillian and Graham Wood, owners of The Chester Hotel, all proceeds support The JEllie Foundation, which provides funding and support to local charities including:
- A Bear Named Buttony
- Homestart Aberdeen
- The Leanne Fund
- The Baird Family Hospital Parents’ Hotel
- The Archie Foundation
- SensationALL