by Clare Smyth
The Corenucopia team
Head Chef Gary and Restaurant Manager Lynn have been intrinsic to the Core team since 2019, and their roles at Corenucopia mark their progression into leadership.
The team is further bolstered by Head Sommelier Valentin, whose experience across respected Michelin-starred restaurants brings depth and clarity to the wine selection. Core Master Sommelier Gareth Ferreira will work closely with Valentin on creating an exceptional wine programme.
Clare Smyth MBE
Clare Smyth MBE is the first British female chef to be awarded three Michelin stars for her restaurant Core.
Originally from Northern Ireland, she has trained and worked in renowned kitchens, including Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, and built her reputation on precision, integrity, and deep respect for ingredients.
Now, with Corenucopia, Clare marks the next chapter in her journey—an opportunity to support and guide the next generation of hospitality.
Visit claresmyth.com
Gary Mundi
Head Chef
Head Chef Gary comes from Canada and joined Core by Clare Smyth in 2019. Gary brings a deep respect for produce and a sharp eye for detail. He leads with quiet confidence, setting clear standards and working closely with suppliers to ensure quality from the ground up. As Head Chef at Corenucopia, he is excited to embrace a new challenge — building a kitchen defined by precision, purpose, and a genuine love of cooking.
Lynn van Logtestijn
Restaurant Manager
Lynn is from Denmark and studied hospitality management at Vatel Hospitality Business School in Bordeaux. She began her career at Core in 2019, progressing from intern to Assistant Restaurant Manager. During this time, she became a certified sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers and was recognised as a winning finalist in the esteemed Gold Service Scholarship.
Renowned for her professionalism, warmth and multilingual fluency, she fosters a culture of growth while delivering the highest standards of service. As Restaurant Manager, she makes sure Corenucopia provides a refined yet welcoming experience for every guest.
Valentin Picon
Head Sommelier
Hailing from Bordeaux, Valentin brings a wealth of experience to his role as Head Sommelier at
Corenucopia.
Having honed his skills at renowned Michelin-starred establishments such as Mauro Colagreco at Raffles OWO, Restaurant Gordon Ramsay and L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, he blends classical training with a calm, guest-focused approach. Valentin holds the Advanced Sommelier Diploma from the Court of Master Sommeliers, WSET Wine and Spirits Level 3 and is a previous Semi-Finalist of the prestigious UK Sommelier of the Year.
