About Us
From northern Sweden to the Kent coast — a chef's journey built on passion, family and community
Philosophy
This is a people business, and you need the right people around you. The service and the experience people have can be more important than food. Great service is good for the heart, the head and the soul.
1994
Where it began
At 15, Tomas started an apprenticeship at a modern Swedish restaurant in Ă–stersund. Working three nights a week for free, his passion quickly overtook everything else. By 17, he was cooking full time.
2000
A taste of Spain
A move to La Comedia in Marbella kick-started Tomas's passion for Spanish food — an influence that still shapes every dish at Bar Ingo today.
2001
London calling
Tomas landed at Aquarium in St. Katherine's Dock. The first year was tough — starting at 7am and finishing at midnight. But it laid the foundation for what was to come.
2003
The Soho House years
Soho House became home. Working across Electric Brasserie and High Road Brasserie, Tomas learned from founder Nick Jones. Every day was different — Metallica on one table, Victoria Beckham on the next.
2017
Going solo
After moving to Kent and falling for the community, Tomas opened New Street Bistro in Margate — his first solo venture at 38. It thrived, even through the pandemic.
2024
Bar Ingo is born
Together with his son Rio, Tomas opened Bar Ingo — a cosy 22-cover space in Broadstairs. Refined small plates with a nod to Spain's Basque region. OpenTable Top 100. Good Food Guide acclaim. A place that feels like coming to eat at their house.
Customer Reviews
What our guests are saying about Bar Ingo
“A completely faultless experience! Staff, service, atmosphere, wine and of course the food was all absolutely incredible!”
TripAdvisor Review
“What a great little find Bar Ingo is. Broadstairs has some fantastic restaurants and this is certainly one. The tapas are fresh and have plenty of flavour.”
TripAdvisor Review
“Fabulous wine list and incredibly well flavoured dishes. The friendly, informal atmosphere and attentive staff enhance the experience.”
OpenTable Review
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