Divided into eight teams, they were tasked to create premium-standard main courses and desserts, prioritising sustainability throughout. Each team was judged on reducing carbon emissions, minimising waste and making conscious ingredient choices.
The competition was open to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium’s Guest Experience team and non-culinary employees from Levy, which saw competitors from Front-of-House, Porters, Logistics, HR, Retail, Hospitality, and Health & Safety.
Each team had 90 minutes to cook two courses and impress the judges with their presentation, taste profiles, dish complexity and carbon labelling through Foodsteps, a tool Levy uses across its estate to measure and communicate the environmental impact of its food.
Mark Reynolds, executive head chef at Tottenham and Levy’s regional executive chef for London, said: “I was blown away by the creativity, skill and presentation displayed by all eight teams, especially as the competitors weren’t allowed to come from the culinary department. It goes to show just how engaged everyone at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is when it comes to sustainability.”
The winning menu of Celeriac Steak with Parsnip Puree, Roasted Carrots, Parsnip Crisps and Vegan Jus, followed by a Brown Butter Blondie Brownie with Caramelised Figs served with Custard will be served by the culinary team at an upcoming event at one of the stadium’s premium restaurants.
Kevin Watson, Levy sustainability director, added: “Levy is committed to prioritising sustainability and respect for both the planet and our people, and initiatives such as the Sustainable Menu Competition with Tottenham Hotspur Stadium showcase both brilliantly.
“This is a superb example of how we can educate and involve our teams to implement sustainable practices, such as using sustainable ingredients, minimising waste, and exploring ways to reduce the carbon intensity of our menus.”
The winning team – Christopher Mullens (Head of Retail), Yasmin Osman (People Ops Manager), Kwame Williams (Guest Experience Manager), Bettina Szelpal (Health & Safety Manager) – also received a certificate and tickets to the F1 DRIVE – London, karting experience at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.