The thought-provoking mentor day aimed to prepare, develop and connect the finalists before they enter the kitchens of the University of West London to cook for the impressive panel of judges next month.
With motivational talks from the chairs of judges Matt Abé (NCOTY) and Russell Bateman (YNCOTY) there were plenty of opportunities for the talented and ambitious chefs to learn. There were also culinary demonstrations from Simon Hulstone representing Seafood from Norway, Matt Owens from Lumina Lamb and Howard Beasley from Essential Cuisine.
Will Torrent, senior development and innovation chef at Waitrose, said: “Hosting the mentor experience for this prestigious competition is a real honour for myself and the Waitrose team.
“It’s such an incredible competition which for over five decades has shone a light on the best culinary talent both through its competitors and judging panel. At the Waitrose Food Innovation Studio, we’re all about leading the way in culinary development and driving food trends, so it seems the perfect fit to host this prestigious industry event.”
New for 2024 was an exclusive event for the National Chef of the Year finalists held on Monday 2nd September at the Odney Club in Maidenhead. The finalists enjoyed a night of networking with some former National Chef of the Year winners including Nick Smith, Thomas Swaby and Russell Bateman.
Matt Abé also joined the event to meet the finalists for the first time, answer questions and help to put them at ease. Chefs and other VIP guests were able to enjoy a delicious barbeque prepared on a Kasai Grill supplied by Gastronomy Plus.