WHO'LL BE THE NEXT TOQUE OF THE TOWN?

In its 20th year, the catering competition's heats are back at Hotelympia. To enter colleges must select a team of four chefs and two front of house team members, create an original dining concept and d sign a three-course lunchtime menu (on paper) to impress the judging panel. If their paper entry is successful, the team (along with 15 others) will be invited to cook in front of thousands at Hotelympia 2008, at La Parade des Chefs kitchens preparing and then serving a three-course menu to 20 discerning guests. After that, the Grand Final will see five teams will battle it out for the coveted title of 2008 champions. This challenge will have each team tasked to serve 100 diners at their 'place to eat' under the watchful eyes of the highly experienced judging panel. Of course, whilst the quality of the food on a menu is critical, it is the total meal experience – the atmosphere, the service and the people both front and back of house that will be the basis upon which the team are judged. Martin Lines, Marketing Director, Nestlé FoodServices said: "It is unique – there is no other competition that brings together all aspects of our industry and that is also why it is so well respected. With a 20 year heritage and the support of key players in our industry, this is a real opportunity for students win an accolade which will impress prospective employers, out in industry." The Menu All menus should start with a soup, which includes at least one Nestlé Foodservices product from the nominated list. The signature main course should be imaginative and contemporary and will require speed, precision and quality ingredients, which is exactly why we have asked you to work with the Chef range of stocks and jus. In addition, to reflect current trends for nutrition and healthy living, the final dish should not exceed 600 calories when served. NEW to this year's competition is the Mövenpick of Switzerland premium ice cream range. An impressive finale course requires this ingredient for your dessert. You can download an entry form from www.nestlefoodservices.co.uk or contact the Nestlé Toque d'Or team on Tel: 0208 667 5530 for an entry form but be quick as the closing date for entries is 14 January 2008.