Hampshire Country pub welcomes talented new head chef

Matt Noonan recently joined The Half Moon & Spread Eagle in Micheldever, bringing more than 20 years of experience and a reputation for creative, contemporary country cooking.

He launched his first menu on Saturday, October 25, where he was able to showcase his creativity and passion for local, seasonal cooking which is set to redefine the pub dining experience.

His career includes time at The Hampshire Pantry in Winchester, The Yard in The Candover Valley, and The Hut on the Isle of Wight.

Chef Matt Noonan in the kitchen of the pub (Image: Half Moon & Spread Eagle)

One of the investors in the pub, Rupert Greatrix, said: "Matt has been creating an amazing reputation at the Halfmoon and Spread Eagle. Since starting his new menu last weekend, we have capped the covers at 20 lunch & 20 evening to allow him to build efficiently.  

"We are also really keen to support and work with local suppliers to bring some more great products to the Halfmoon."

Matt was also head chef at The Black Rat in Winchester, where his inspired dishes and commitment to exceptional quality earned widespread acclaim.

Mr Noonan grew up in the New Forest and credits the Hampshire landscape as the foundation of his cooking style, which emphasises foraging, local produce, and close partnerships with regional suppliers.

He describes his food as wholesome, traditional, seasonal country cooking with a contemporary edge.

At The Half Moon & Spread Eagle, Mr Noonan has been given full creative freedom to develop a menu that blends classic pub favourites with more refined dishes.

Guests can look forward to comforting classics elevated with local ingredients, along with bold new flavours that capture the best of Hampshire. Future plans include hosting fine dining evenings.

The pub has also partnered with local wine supplier Caviste to offer curated pairings for the new menu.

To look at the new menu, visit: https://www.halfmoonandspreadeagle.co.uk/menu