DEAN BANKS - A LIFE OF COOKING
Dean Banks, one of Scotland’s most celebrated chefs, has dedicated his life to exceptional cuisine, beginning his culinary journey at just 15 years old.
Growing up in Arbroath, a historic fishing town famous for the Arbroath Smokie, instilled in him a deep passion for Scottish seafood and shaped his commitment to sustainable, locally sourced ingredients.
A Global Culinary Journey
Dean’s career has taken him to over 40 countries, where he immersed himself in diverse culinary traditions, refining techniques, mastering bold global flavours, and learning from some of the world’s top chefs.
His early training at Rick Stein’s The Seafood Restaurant, often regarded as Britain’s best seafood restaurant, set the foundation for his expertise. Returning to Scotland, he worked in Michelin-starred restaurants, honing his skills in modern Scottish fine dining.
Luxury Dining & International Influence
Expanding his horizons, Dean moved to Verbier, Switzerland, where he catered to elite international clientele in luxury chalets.
Between seasons, he travelled extensively, drawing inspiration from Asia, Europe, and the Americas -a signature influence in his cooking today.
MasterChef Professionals: 2018 Finalist
In 2018, Dean Banks impressed judges on MasterChef: The Professionals, with his innovative techniques, creative vision, and globally inspired flavours.
Reaching the final three was a defining moment in his career, setting the stage for his own fine-dining ventures.
The Launch of Haar Restaurant
In April 2019, Dean launched Haar Restaurant at the 5-star Kinnettles Hotel in St. Andrews, bringing his unique culinary style to Scotland’s east coast. Inspired by the "haar" - the cold sea fog that drifts inland from the North Sea, the restaurant’s name reflects its deep maritime roots.
The menu champions Scotland’s finest produce, with a focus on fresh, sustainably sourced seafood. Signature dishes, like the oak-smoked St. Andrews Bay lobster with mirin butter sauce, highlight Dean’s commitment to local ingredients and bold flavours.
Adapting to Change: Haar at Home & New Beginnings
When the March 2020 lockdown forced restaurants to close, Haar adapted with the launch of Haar at Home, a luxury meal box service that brought Michelin-quality dining into people’s homes. This innovative approach kept the brand thriving and introduced Haar’s unique flavours to a wider audience.
In late 2022, Haar relocated to its permanent home at Golf Place, St. Andrews, an iconic location that now features six luxury rooms above the restaurant. This move elevated the guest experience, blending world-class cuisine with premium hospitality.
The Dean Banks Group: Expanding Across Scotland
The success of Haar paved the way for the Dean Banks Group, which now operates several award-winning restaurants across Scotland, including:
Dune, St. Andrews - A sister restaurant to Haar, focusing on refined yet relaxed dining.
Dulse, Edinburgh & Dulse Leith - Showcasing seafood and small plates with a modern Scottish twist.
Dean Banks at The Pompadour, Edinburgh - An exclusive fine-dining experience blending tradition with innovation.
Building on the success of Haar, the Dean Banks Group has flourished, establishing a prestigious collection of award-winning restaurants and brands across Scotland.
Our portfolio includes:
Dune, St. Andrews: A sister restaurant to Haar, offering a sophisticated yet relaxed dining experience with a focus on contemporary flavors.
Dulse, Edinburgh & Dulse Leith: A celebration of modern Scottish cuisine, specializing in fresh seafood and small plates that put a creative twist on local traditions.
Dean Banks at The Pompadour, Edinburgh: An exclusive fine-dining destination where time-honored techniques meet innovative cuisine, providing a truly unforgettable experience.
At-Home Services:
Haar at Home: Bringing the essence of Haar's exceptional dining experience straight to your doorstep.
Wagyu Burger: Indulge in the richness of Wagyu beef, expertly crafted into a luxurious burger.
Our Spirits Collection:
Lunan Gin: A distinctive, small-batch gin, Lunan is crafted using handpicked botanicals from the Scottish countryside.
Mond Vodka: Crafted using the finest ingredients and distilled to perfection, Mond is a refined, ultra-smooth vodka that sets the standard for sophistication.
Dean Banks continues to redefine Scottish fine dining, blending traditional flavours with global influences while championing sustainability and local sourcing.
His restaurant group’s expansion is a testament to his dedication, ensuring that every guest experiences the very best of Scotland’s larder with a contemporary, creative touch.