Where Future Chefs Meet the Masters

Students from Weston College and City of Bristol College joined leading chefs at DoubleTree by Hilton Cadbury House to deliver an exceptional four-course Bristol & Somerset Lunch.

The Bristol & Somerset Lunch, hosted by The Chefs’ Forum, took place on Monday 9th March 2026 at the stunning DoubleTree by Hilton Bristol South – Cadbury House, bringing together leading chefs, hospitality professionals, industry suppliers and students for an inspiring afternoon celebrating collaboration within the sector.

The event began with a lively drinks reception before guests sat down to enjoy a beautifully crafted four-course lunch, prepared by a combination of talented students and some of the region’s most respected chefs.

General Manager, Gareth Ireland, welcomed the industry guests and told them about the great relationships the Hilton team have developed with both local catering colleges and is delighted to have many apprentices currently working with the hotel, who were showcasing their skills on the day.

Gareth said:

“We have seen an outstanding contribution from hospitality and catering students from Weston College and City of Bristol College, who have worked alongside the chefs to help deliver this excellent lunch service. Their professionalism, enthusiasm and passion for hospitality showcased the strength of emerging culinary talent in the South West and demonstrated the importance of collaboration between industry and education in developing the next generation of chefs.”

Ninety industry guests and suppliers enjoyed a menu created and delivered by an exceptional line-up of chefs:

Andrew Brooks, Chef Patron of White Truffle – Starter

Andrew said:

“It was a fantastic day at Cadbury House. Events like this are so important because they bring chefs, students and suppliers together in one place. Seeing the enthusiasm and professionalism from the students was brilliant – they are the future of our industry.”

Gary Crossan, Head Chef at Harvey Nichols Bristol – Fish course

Gary said:

“It was a brilliant day working alongside such a talented group of chefs and enthusiastic students. Events like this are a great reminder of how supportive the hospitality community is, and it’s fantastic to see the next generation getting hands-on experience in a professional environment.”

Patrick Frost, Executive Chef, and Steve Manning, Head Chef at DoubleTree by Hilton Bristol South – Cadbury House – Main course

Patrick said:

“Hosting the Bristol & Somerset Lunch is always a highlight for our team. It’s a real privilege to cook alongside such talented chefs while giving students the chance to experience what service at this level is really like.”

Toru Yanada, Group Head Chef at Burra – Dessert

Toru said:

“It was a pleasure to be part of such a fantastic event. The energy in the kitchen was incredible, and it’s always rewarding to work alongside talented chefs while supporting students who are passionate about building careers in our industry.”

Each course demonstrated the creativity and skill of the chefs while providing students with invaluable experience working within a professional event environment.

A huge thank you goes to all of the chefs and Paris who led the front of house team, generously giving their time, talent and mentorship to create such a memorable lunch and to support the students working alongside them in the kitchen.

Paris and the chefs, were each asked to choose a ‘Student Star of The Day’ from front and back of house, who each received a signed copy of The Chefs’ Forum’s book, The Chefs’ Knowledge. Berta Bujanda Santana from City of Bristol College won Front of House Star of the Day and Jofin Varghese from Weston College won Back of House Star of the Day.

Berta said:

“Working alongside chefs of this calibre was an incredible experience. We learned so much in such a short space of time, and being part of a professional lunch service like this has really inspired me for my future career and I have made lots of brilliant industry contacts.”

Jofin concluded:

“It was an amazing opportunity to work in a professional kitchen with top chefs and meet so many people from the industry. The atmosphere was fantastic and it’s definitely a day I’ll remember throughout my career.”

Special thanks also go to DoubleTree by Hilton Bristol South – Cadbury House for hosting yet another exceptional Chefs’ Forum event and for providing the perfect setting for an afternoon celebrating culinary excellence and industry collaboration.

Finally, sincere thanks to the sponsors and partners including MCS Technical Products, Pastry Gelato Equipment, Chef Works, Dole Foodservice, HRC, Pure Ionic Water, Ritter Courivaud, Ritter Fresh, MDCV UK and Purbeck Ice Cream whose continued support helps make these events possible. Their commitment to supporting chefs, education and the wider hospitality industry ensures that The Chefs’ Forum can continue to create opportunities for learning, networking and professional development.

The Bristol & Somerset Lunch once again demonstrated the power of bringing together chefs, students, educators and suppliers to share knowledge, build meaningful connections and champion the future of the hospitality industry.

Photography & film by Carlos Farinha @carlosclickuk