University of West London’s Culinary Stars Shine at ‘Student Experience’ Event

The University of West London (UWL) proudly hosted an unforgettable ‘Student Experience’ event at Pillars Restaurant on Thursday (27) February, showcasing the remarkable talent and creativity of its Culinary Arts degree students.

This inaugural Student Experience event, curated by University of West London Culinary Ambassador Michael Coaker, is crucial in providing a cornerstone for students’ training and development.

Chef Michael 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.”

He continued,
“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.”

The evening was a resounding success. Students delivered an exquisite four-course menu and demonstrated their skill, innovation, and passion for fine dining, gastronomy and luxury hospitality, which are both specialisms in undergraduate and post graduate degree courses offered at the University of West London.

Guided by esteemed guest chefs and university lecturers, the students meticulously crafted and served a menu that delighted attendees with its bold flavours and refined presentation.

Professor Peter John, CBE, Vice Chancellor and President of The University of West London was delighted to host such a prestigious event, he said
“It was an absolute pleasure to meet all those who have mentored and supported our staff and students at the University. The evening was a genuine success, and we hope to repeat it in the months and years to come.”

An exquisite seasonal menu was created for 70 guests who attended:

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

Front of House Lecturers, Giovanni Gargasole and Sabina Paval, headed-up the restaurant set-up and service, while Chef Lecturers Paulo Oliveira and Cristian Boglaru led the kitchen team.

Sabina said
“Events like these are so important to showcase our wonderful restaurant and the talent of our chef lecturers and students. The students enjoy real-life service experiences within Pillars, and it is a fantastic opportunity for them to network and forge industry links and connections before graduation.”

Their invaluable guidance gave students first-hand insight into the fast-paced and demanding world of professional gastronomy. The ‘Student Experience’ event is central to UWL’s commitment to practical learning.

Guests, including industry professionals, university stakeholders, and sponsors, were very impressed by the students’ remarkable ability to execute a sophisticated fine-dining experience. The evening celebrated culinary excellence and reinforced the importance of experiential learning in shaping the next generation of talented chefs.

As the University of West London continues to live up to its excellent reputation of developing future leaders in the culinary arts, experiences like these remain integral to the students’ journey towards achieving culinary excellence, dedicated to showcasing their creativity, dedication, and passion for gastronomy.