Designed to support local London talent and find the next ‘big name’ in food, ‘Brixton Kitchen’ will also champion the culinary diversity and creativity of Brixton.
Open to home cooks, street food sellers, supper club organisers, food start-ups and entrepreneurs, the inaugural contest will put their culinary skills to the test, before shortlisted finalists are invited to a live pitch.
This year’s panel includes Great British Menu 2018 winner, James Cochran (of London restaurant, 1251); Jackson Boxer, chef and restaurateur of Brunswick House and St Leonards (London); and baker Claire Ptak of Violet Cakes, who made Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding cake.
Cochran said: “I am honoured to be a judge for Brixton Kitchen, especially for its inaugural year.
“Brixton is an area of London close to my heart and I have fond memories of coming here as a kid with my mum, so to come back and be part of its future is amazing.
“Brixton continues to be such a melting pot for world cuisines, and I am looking forward to mentoring the next generation of young vibrant chefs here.”
Ptak added: “Having started my business as a market stall, and cooking from home before opening my bakery-café, I know how essential markets are to encouraging local talent and creativity.
“I love discovering London’s latest culinary delights, so to be part of Brixton Kitchen, celebrating the community and supporting passionate cooks and entrepreneurs like myself, is incredibly exciting.”
Two winners will each be awarded six-months residency at Brixton Village, as well as on-going mentorship and access to workshops covering everything needed to open a restaurant. They will also be enrolled on a programme with a team of ‘experts’ to help refine their product, put ideas into practice and build a long-term presence for their brand.
For competition guideline and to enter, visit: https://brixton-kitchen.com/.