Pate has already begun evolving the menu across the five-strong London group, placing traditional French flavours and techniques at its heart.
Originally from Calabria in southern Italy, Pate began his career aged 14 in his uncle’s restaurant before going on to train in several Michelin-starred kitchens.
He later moved to London, taking on senior roles at restaurants including Chotto Matte and Norma.
Pate will continue to develop Cocotte’s menu while staying true to the generous, ingredient-led style that has defined the group since it launched.
Central to the new menu is Cocotte’s signature rotisserie chicken, infused with Provençal herbs, garlic and lemon.
Other dishes include oeuf cocotte, Comté and rosemary croquettes, and a chicken escalope served with a fried egg.
These are accompanied by a selection of salads and sides, including creamed spinach, truffle pomme purée and Cocotte’s take on a Niçoise salad.
“What attracted me to Cocotte is its clear identity and confidence in simplicity,” says Pate. “This is the beauty of the cooking I fell in love with and that has guided me throughout my career.
“When the ingredients are great and the cooking is precise, the result feels effortless and genuine. My focus will be on nurturing an even deeper sense of care, seasonality and refinement throughout the menu, while remaining true to the food people already love at Cocotte. The opportunities ahead are incredibly exciting.”
“We weren’t looking for someone to change Cocotte; we were looking for someone who understood what people already love about it,” says Cocotte founder Romain Bourrillon.
“We’ve spent 10 years building something that we’re proud of, and Santo understands what makes it work. We’re excited to see where he takes it next.”
Founded by Bourrillon and a group of Parisian friends in 2016, Cocotte now operates five restaurants in Notting Hill, South Kensington, Richmond, Shoreditch and Parsons Green.