The inaugural Student Experience event, curated by University of West London culinary ambassador Michael Coaker, was crucial in providing a cornerstone for students’ training and development.
Students delivered a four-course menu that demonstrated their skill, innovation and passion for fine dining, gastronomy and luxury hospitality. The menu, which was created for 70 guests, included:
- Taster: Orkney scallops with celeriac & Cox’s apple purée, Scottish black pudding crumb
- Starter: Roast Jerusalem artichoke, onion soubise with rainbow chard, cashew nut & Keralan spiced oil
- Main Course: Asian Lumina Lamb loin, feta saffron mash, smoked aubergine & wild mushroom ragu, spiced red wine sauce
- Dessert: Amalfi lemon tart ‘brûlée’ with raspberry sorbet, limon & shiso cress
Coaker said: “This evening’s function provided invaluable, hands-on experience under the expert mentorship of top industry chefs and dedicated lecturers. We are so very grateful to all of our supporters and sponsors, including Alliance Farmers Produce, The Hippodrome Casino, Essential Cuisine and Oranka Juice Solutions.
“The students have had a unique opportunity to refine their technical skills, experiment with new flavours, and master the art of high-end dining service in a real-world setting. The university continues to bridge the gap between academia and the industry by forging strong connections with top chefs and culinary professionals, ensuring that students are well-prepared for successful careers in hospitality.”