Innovative Christmas dining at Links House with chef Theo Creton

Discover how chef Theo Creton is redefining Christmas Day menus at Links House.

At just 28 years old, Theo Creton has made a remarkable transition from nightclub worker to executive chef at Links House, a boutique hotel in Dornoch. This Christmas, he is set to lead the hotel’s inaugural Christmas Day festivities, bringing a fresh perspective to traditional holiday dining.

A surprising career path

Theo’s journey into the culinary world was unexpected. Initially working in a nightclub and at Waitrose, he found himself thrust into the kitchen when a colleague fell ill. With no formal cooking experience, he took on the challenge of preparing meals for 200 people.

“I thought – why not?” he recalls. This leap of faith led him to spend four years as head chef at Links House, followed by a stint at Ballintaggart in Perthshire. Returning to Links House in September, Theo describes it as “like putting on a pair of shoes you haven’t worn in years.”

Redefining the festive menu

As Christmas approaches, Theo is excited about crafting a menu that reflects his family’s traditions while steering clear of the conventional turkey. “I hate turkey,” he admits candidly. “It’s the driest meat in the world – I challenge anyone to make it tender.” Instead, he plans to serve roast duck or sirloin, alongside a gammon cooked in Irn-Bru, a nod to his Scottish roots. His festive menu will also feature a starter inspired by his mother’s cooking: pear with tarragon mousseline and a classic prawn cocktail with Marie Rose sauce.

The challenges of working during the holidays

Despite his passion for cooking, Theo acknowledges the difficulties faced by hospitality workers during the Christmas season. “It’s one of the toughest times,” he explains. “People forget that we’re human too.” He emphasizes the importance of treating hospitality staff with respect, especially during busy holiday periods. Theo has worked every Christmas since he began his culinary career, often missing family gatherings. “My brother’s recently had kids, and I’m missing out on their first Christmas together,” he shares. Yet, he finds solace in the camaraderie of his kitchen team, describing it as a close-knit family.

A festive celebration in Dornoch

After the Christmas Day service, Theo and his team plan to celebrate together, highlighting the strong sense of community in Dornoch. “When we finish around ten o’clock, we will definitely be heading to the pub,” he says, looking forward to joining the local festivities. The town’s vibrant atmosphere during the holiday season is something he cherishes, making the sacrifices of working on Christmas worthwhile.

With a unique approach to festive dining, Theo Creton is set to make this Christmas at Links House a memorable experience for guests, showcasing that holiday meals can be both innovative and deeply personal.