Bristol Shines Once Again as a Top Culinary Destination

Bristol once again proved why it remains one of the UK’s premier food destinations—and the birthplace of The Chefs’ Forum, which first launched in the city back in 2011.

On Monday, 10th March, a full house gathered at the Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel to enjoy a spectacular showcase of the South West’s finest culinary talent at The Chefs’ Forum Bristol Lunch.

Top local chefs, including Michael Hoskin (Steak of the Art), Tom Green (Private Chef), Cepdia Schrouder (Executive Chef, Bristol Marriott Royal), and Kasae Fraser (Our Table Dining & MasterChef: The Professionals 2023), collaborated with students from City of Bristol College to create an unforgettable, sell-out dining experience.

General Manager, James Laverick expressed his pleasure at hosting the event, he said
“It is wonderful to see so many local hospitality businesses from across the city represented at today’s Bristol Chefs’ Lunch. The team have really enjoyed having the guest chefs and hospitality students work with them in the kitchen. The standard of food produced was fantastic and it was great to catch up with industry colleagues at such a positive and well-organised event.”

The Chefs’ Forum Director, Catherine Farinha, reflected on the event:
“We always love coming back to where it all began. Bristol never disappoints, and today’s chefs truly put on a showstopper. The lunch was flawless, and it was amazing to see the students’ excitement. They gain so much from these events, and it’s a privilege to help nurture the next generation of culinary professionals.”

The event also highlighted the impact of The Chefs’ Forum’s work in education:
“Just recently, one of our colleges told us how much our initiatives enhance student grades and employability, and that was clear to see today.”

Cassandra Williams, from City of Bristol College echoed this sentiment, stating:
“Our Level 2 students had the incredible opportunity to work alongside some serious culinary talent today. It gave them real hands-on experience and a taste of professional kitchens. The skills they’ve learned here will stay with them as they move forward in their careers. Outstanding.”

Each chef was asked to elect a ‘Star of the Day’, an outstanding student, who they thought deserved to be given a copy of The Chefs’ Knowledge – 100 recipes all chefs need to know, so here is a rundown of the chefs, the dish they cooked and their individual ‘Stars of the Day’

The Exquisite Bristol Chefs’ Lunch Menu:

Starter – Michael Hoskin (Steak of the Art)
Beef fat choux bun, braised Aussie short rib ragu, mushroom ketchup, pickled silverskin onions, Parmesan & horseradish espuma
Star of the Day: Jade Taylor

Jade also managed to secure a trial shift and job interview at The Bristol Beacon on the day, huge congratulations Jade!

Front of House Star of the Day: Maida Mohamed.

Fish Course – Tom Green (Private Chef)
Sea bass ceviche, tiger’s milk, aji amarillo, blood orange, sweet potato, Ashton Court wild garlic, squid ink coral
Star of the Day: Archie Watson

Main Course – Cepdia Schrouder (Marriott Royal Hotel)
Aussie lamb rump, lamb bonbon, pea purée, carrot, mashed potato, lamb gravy
Star of the Day: Breanna Robert

Dessert – Kasae Fraser (Our Table Dining & MasterChef: The Professionals 2023)
Brown butter financier, roasted hay & ricotta cream, caramel apples, apple & rosemary granita
Star of the Day: Tanisha Skye Edwards