Designed to “inspire the next generation of chefs to develop their skills, knowledge and experience, and to make more possible for themselves and the whole industry,” the annual contest is now in its 31st year.
Evolving with the changing needs of the foodservice industry, Nestle has placed sustainability, vegetarianism, health and wellbeing at the heart of the 2019 competition, as 44% of consumers consider sustainability of ingredients important when eating out, and 62% proactively try to lead a healthy lifestyle.
This will be encouraged by judges, including chefs James Tanner, Simon Hulstone and Andrej Prokes.
Katya Simmons, Nestlé Professional UK and Ireland managing director, said: “Our aim is to provide the future stars of our industries with new skills, enhancing their learning and career.
“We see Toque d’Or as so much more than just a competition; we are focused on motivating and inspiring potential talent and opening their minds to the opportunities within our industry. It’s about giving them a taste of their future.”
2018 finalist, John Howarth, added: “I've done a few cooking competitions before but I've never been involved in one so fundamentally focused on participants’ development.
“Every part of the competition gave us an opportunity to develop as chefs but also as individuals with a love of food and an opinion.”
Entries opened today (5 November) until the end of the month. Register via: https://www.nestleprofessional.co.uk/toquedor.