Where It All Began
Stuart "The Bear" began his career under two Glaswegian chefs at the Pond Café in Bonchurch. He quickly established a reputation for quality cooking and went on to become one of the youngest Head Chefs on the island at the age of 19 at the White Lion in Niton.
During his career, Stuart has worked in and helped develop a number of well-known hospitality businesses across the Isle of Wight, earning a reputation for producing honest food to a consistently high standard.
Building the Dream
In 2016, Stuart met local girl Dayna. They quickly realised they shared the same entrepreneurial spirit and ambition to build a business together. With Dayna's encouragement and support, Hungry Bear was born.
There were no major investors or large budgets behind the business. With a little help from family, Hungry Bear began life serving restaurant-quality food at local events.
The Story of Hungry Bear
Hungry Bear is more than a brand—it's the story of Stuart
"The Bear" and his ambition to build something of his own.
The Old Lavender Farm Years
The couple were soon offered the opportunity to establish Hungry Bear's first permanent home at Old Lavender Farm in 2017.
Word spread, a loyal following grew, and the Hungry Bear Sunday Roast quickly became a weekly tradition. Building the business required sacrifice. Stuart and Dayna lived in a basic caravan on site while growing the business, and it was during this time they welcomed their son, Hafthor.
Growing at Fakenham Farm
The next chapter took Hungry Bear to Fakenham Farm (now The View). With beautiful coastal views, the business continued to grow. The Bear Breakfasts became a local favourite, brunches expanded, and the Sunday roasts attracted an even bigger following.
In 2020, the pandemic changed hospitality overnight, but Hungry Bear adapted. The team transformed their restaurant operation into a successful roast delivery service, continuing to serve customers when they needed it most.
Making Our Mark
In 2021, Hungry Bear moved to the Rectory Mansion in Brading, a building once famous for its waxworks attraction.
As hospitality reopened, people were ready to come together again. Hungry Bear expanded into evening dining, live music and themed events, while Christmas became one of the highlights of the year, with festive displays, Christmas dinners and even opening on Christmas Day.
A New Direction
As the business evolved, Stuart and Dayna rebranded as The Crown & Bear, creating a more relaxed pub dining experience.
Eventually, family priorities led them to step away from hospitality for a while. After successfully selling The Crown & Bear, they both explored new career opportunities.
During this time, Stuart returned to professional kitchens, helping transform the reputation of a well-known Isle of Wight pub by improving its food hygiene rating from two consecutive one-star ratings to four stars in just six weeks during the busy summer season.
The Return of Hungry Bear
Despite enjoying new opportunities, Stuart and Dayna realised nothing compared to building something together and serving their own community.
Today, Hungry Bear Kitchen proudly operates alongside Koffie in the heart of Niton. While the locations have changed over the years, one thing has remained the same—our commitment to serving honest, freshly cooked food with soul.
We've explored different opportunities over the years, but we've realised this is where we truly belong. Many of you have become more than customers—you've become friends and part of the Hungry Bear family.
Thank you for being part of our story. Stuart, Dayna, Hafthor, Alfie and Nanna Bear look forward to welcoming you to the next chapter of Hungry Bear.
