Tributes paid to ‘much-loved' and ‘well-respected’ Northampton restaurateur who was ‘shining light’ in the town’s independent food scene

Matt Ingram, 43, co-founder of The Smoke Pit, Hops & Chops and Mission Chicken, all based in the town, sadly died in December 2025 - leaving his family, friends, colleagues heartbroken.

His beloved family has given the Chronicle & Echo permission to publish a tribute to celebrate Matt and the legacy he has left in our town.

Matt’s funeral was held on December 30, 2025 where hundreds gathered together in a place that meant so much to the talented chef – The Smoke Pit in The Ridings in the heart of Northampton town centre.

In December, The Smoke Pit wrote on its Facebook page: “It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Matt.

"Matt was deeply passionate about food, about Northampton, and about building places that brought people together. Alongside his brother and business partner James, he helped create three restaurants that are rooted in community, creativity and heart.

“Matt will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him. As a chef, a founder, a friend and a much-loved presence. While our hearts are broken, we are committed to continuing his legacy and honouring everything he built.

"We would also like to thank our incredible customers and the wider Northampton community for the continued support shown to the businesses and our teams; it has meant more than we can say.

“Thank you for the overwhelming kindness and support shown to Matt’s family, James, and the entire team during this incredibly difficult time.”

Matt, who was a proud father, grew up in West Haddon and attended the village primary school and later Guilsborough secondary.

He began working in the catering industry at an early age before going into business with his brother James – also a talented chef.

The pair burst onto the restaurant scene with the opening of The Smoke Pit in January 2015.

As Northampton’s original smokehouse, The Smoke Pit was bold and bright – just like Matt – and something the town had not seen before. The unique building is overflowing with Matt’s character - with quirky artwork and striking designs.

The brothers went on to open Hops and Chops in St Crispin’s in March 2018 before taking over the former Buddies unit in Dychurch Lane which opened as Mission Chicken in May 2025, just a stone’s throw from where it all began.

Popular street food pop-up event Bite Street NN also paid tribute to Matt, who was one of the original traders there and ‘helped build the event into what it is today’.

Bite Street wrote: “It is with a very heavy heart that we share the news that one of the shining lights of NN's food scene has dimmed. It will never go out.

“Matt and his brother James were Bite Street OGs. Full of positivity, unwaveringly supportive and bursting with ideas, energy and attitude – along with an endearing streak of irascibility – Matt was loved and respected in equal measure.

“Without question, he helped build Bite Street into what it is today. We will miss him but we will never forget him.”

Matt, described by his family as ‘larger than life’, made an impact on everyone he met.

Lee Kellett wrote: “Sadly missed, a great friend, entrepreneur and spirit, leaving a legacy “cook free” like Bourdain. Rest in peace my friend.”

Joe Hurn wrote: “Matt, you will be deeply missed. Your legacy lives on through the incredible community you built at The Smoke Pit. I'm so grateful to have had the chance to experience your passion for food and Northampton.”

Sammy Blake said: “An incredible loss, to family, friends and the community. What a legacy he has helped to build. Heartbroken at the news. Thoughts are with anyone who was privileged to have known Matt.”

Kirsty McGall wrote: “Still doesn’t feel real. Matt was always the kindest soul even in the most stressful environments. So sorry to all of his family, it’s so so sad.”

Dean Wood said: “Life is cruel. Such a talented guy! Man that guy knew how to make not only my belly but my heart smile. Such amazing memories at The Smoke Pit and Hops n Chops. We will raise a glass for you sir! God bless your soul.”

Neil Phillips said: “One in seven billion. A friend like no other.”

Jamie Benkert said: “RIP, what an absolute gentleman, entrepreneur and dedicated man.”

Matt worked tirelessly for his family and for the businesses he loved so much and was so proud of.

He was fiercely loyal and flew the flag for truly great independents in our wonderful business community.

Help keep his memory alive and his legacy shining….‘support local’.

Rest in peace, Matt.