Matt Varley joined Lancaster University earlier this year as Executive Chef, seeking the next stage in his culinary career.

With a rich catering background working for corporate football stadiums and sports venues, including notable experiences at Manchester City FC, Manchester United, and York Racecourse, Matt’s expertise spans menu planning, order management, delivery logistics, and service plating.

Matt works in the Food at Dining team who prepare and serve food in University-owned restaurants and cafes, as well as events on campus, with options for all dietary requirements. Matt said:

He envisions a food journey that elevates the dining experience at Lancaster University, aiming to showcase the passion of his talented team through the taste and presentation of their dishes, embracing a modern international approach with a twist on industry trends.

A strong advocate for seasonal produce and local suppliers, Matt emphasises the importance of supporting the artisan movement and improving sustainability, believing in the philosophy of "from field to fork."

Throughout his career, Matt has collaborated with some of Lancashire’s finest producers, including award-winning cheesemakers, chutney makers, butchers, and foragers.

He commented:

In September 2024, new internal Food & Dining menus launched with a series of taster sessions, where professional and academic colleagues from across campus were invited to give feedback.

The menus are available to order for large or small-scale events on campus with the Food & Dining team, and now feature dishes such as slow-cooked beef asado, sweet potato tray bakes, and Italian chicken parmigiano.

Matt has also introduced concepts for new pop-up street food nights, under the brand name Street Eats. Smash burgers, poke bowls and ramen, pizza pockets, hotdogs and nachos, will be served at a Street Eats pop-up in The Deli every Tuesday, between 4.30pm - 8pm.