Michael O'Connor

Executive Head Chef at Regency House

Michael O'Connor, the Executive Head Chef at Regency House, hails from West Belfast. His journey into the culinary world began at the age of 17 after a chance encounter with a cooking leaflet. Uninspired by school, Michael decided to dive headfirst into the world of gastronomy. His passion for the culinary arts led to a move to London. There, he trained under the legendary Marco Pierre White at London’s Mirabelle.

Michael returned to Belfast and established The Barking Dog restaurant, which he successfully ran for 15 years. The Barking Dog became known for its innovative approach to Irish cuisine, straying from traditional norms to offer something unique to its patrons. During this time, Michael played a pivotal role in mentoring several budding chefs who have gone on to make names for themselves in the culinary world.

Now at Regency House, Michael faces the challenge of creating a menu that complements the five-star establishment's atmosphere. His focus remains on balancing high-quality, luxurious dishes with hearty and honest food, while also emphasizing locally-sourced ingredients. Michael's journey embodies the essence of hard work, passion, and an unwavering dedication to elevating the culinary scene in Belfast.