Stokehouse has announced Ash Smith has joined the team as group pastry chef.

Smith has made the move from Sydney to Melbourne after time at Rockpool Dining Group, Chiswick and 12-Micron.

“I’m looking forward to going back to basics and reinventing flavour pairings I’m familiar with, creating approachable fine dining desserts for all,” says Smith.

The chef will be back working alongside Stokehouse’s Executive Chef Jason Staudt after the pair worked together in Sydney.

“[We] go back over a decade to our days at Aria so I’m excited to hit the ground in Melbourne with an old friend by my side,” says Smith.

“We work well together in the kitchen, making sure that the savoury dishes and the desserts work well together,” says Ash.

Smith takes over the group pastry chef role from Lauren Eldridge, who has joined Woodcut at Crown Sydney.

“After 3+ years with the wonderful team at @stokehouserestaurants, I have returned home to Sydney and I am happy to announce my new role as Head Pastry Chef at @woodcutrestaurant, Eldridge posted on Instagram.

“Every detail of this beautiful new restaurant has been thoughtfully considered by Sunny & @ross_lusted. From the hand crafted knives and cast iron pans, the bespoke artwork and the world class Australian produce, I can’t wait for you all to share in this experience.”

Smith officially commences his role in late January.