The winning concept was based on Nikkei food which is all about fusion cooking and the winning team experimented with different cooking techniques – from Japanese cooking to Hibachi grilling on flavoured wood, marinading and preserving South American ingredients. The team further developed the Nikkei style of food by introducing flavours from Brazil and Mexico and applying them not just to savoury dishes but also to cocktails and desserts.
The winning team will see their concept introduced across the business and will also enjoy a dinner at a top London restaurant and a masterclass with Dhruv Baker, winner of 2010 MasterChef and one of the competition judges.
Matt Wood, Managing Director of Lexington, said: “This competition highlights the passion and creativity that exists across our business. Not only was it impressive that 27 teams participated in the competition but it was extremely exciting to witness such high levels of innovation and talent. It was thrilling to experience such a delicious range of food options and know that Lexington teams had created these amazing concepts.”
Over 150 clients and guests attended and sampled the food concepts developed by the six finalists and voted for their favourite brand which accounted for 50% of the final score. A panel of industry experts including MasterChef winner Dhruv Baker accounted for the other half of the score.
Each entry had to include the following:
- Food cost of £3 per head
- Marketing plan including promotional material, banners, menus and uniforms
- Mobilisation plan
- Description of equipment from food stands to display materials
- Recipes for all menu items
- Supporting photos, materials and ideas.
Baker added: “What an honour to be asked to be a judge for a truly spectacular event. The Lexington Casual Dining Competition was a showcase of the width and breadth of the immense talent that Lexington Catering has. Stunning food, beautifully conceived and perfected executed. I was blown away by the sheer brilliance of it all. Such passionate people exhibiting immense talent - it was a treat to witness.”