By Angela Green
Chef News is sponsored by Kitchen Porters Club
Chefs from some of Ayrshire’s restaurants have been hailed by their peers thanks to a new initiative launched by Buzzworks Holdings.
Chefs from Scotts Largs, Lido Troon and Vic’s and the Vine in Prestwick were applauded by colleagues for their outstanding skill and dedication to their role. Alongside chefs from The Bridge Inn in Linlithgow, and Scotts at Port Edgar Marina in South Queensferry, a group of 6 was identified from more than 230 chefs across Buzzworks’ portfolio of nineteen venues throughout Scotland.
Sous Chef Andrew Hill from Scotts Largs was named overall “Chef of the West” for his dedication and skill, earning himself an additional two days of annual leave to rest and rejuvenate.
Andy said: “I’m honoured to have been named Chef of the West and am very grateful to work in such a supportive and inspiring environment. It’s a joy to not only be part of the incredible team at Scotts Largs, but also, work alongside such talented Chefs throughout the wider culinary team here at Buzzworks.”
Meanwhile, Kitchen Porter James Miller also from Scotts Largs, was recognised as the most outstanding KP within the whole business and received a cash reward for his tireless work.
James added: “Having just celebrated my 11-year anniversary with Buzzworks Holdings makes this recognition even more special. Throughout my time at Buzzworks, the team have never failed to make me feel valued, supported, and appreciated within my role.”
Sous Chef at Vic’s and the Vine Steven Croucher was awarded a generous cash reward for his culinary creativity, designing the most innovative specials whilst Junior Sous Chef Rory Campbell was presented with personalised chef whites for his commitment to maintaining the tidiest kitchen station during demanding service.
Chef De Partie Jennifer English also from Vic’s and the Vine, was recognised for her eagerness to learn and therefore awarded a premium meal experience for herself and one lucky guest.
Leaders who help boost team morale were rewarded too, with Brian Canny – Head Chef at Lido Troon – gifted with tickets to see his favourite show for keeping his colleagues entertained with his impressive vocal skills during their shifts.
As part of the group’s continued commitment to staff development, Buzzworks has also introduced a Chef Leaderboard – a friendly, inter-venue competition designed to encourage each kitchen team to motivate one another and recognise the creativity of their chefs.
After a tightly fought competition, the team at Scotts Largs were crowned overall winners, securing a great cash reward for outstanding culinary excellence and exceptional team spirit.
Nicole Watt, Head of People at Buzzworks Holdings, said: “We are incredibly lucky to have such a wealth of talented chefs in our team at Buzzworks, and our new Chef Awards are the perfect way to celebrate them.
“We are passionate about inspiring our kitchen staff – and indeed anyone who is interested in a career in hospitality – to encourage their creativity and develop their talent.”
Buzzworks has established itself as an industry leader in Scotland’s hospitality sector through its culinary excellence and aspirational dining and entertainment experiences at its stylish brands: Scotts, House, Lido, Vic’s & The Vine, The Duke, Thirty Knots, The Bridge Inn, The Fox and Herringbone.
Just last month, the company announced the appointment of acclaimed Chef, Scott van der Hoek to oversee the portfolio’s entire food offering with a vision to create an “outstanding dining experience for customers.”
The group is currently hiring for a number of kitchen and front-of-house vacancies at its premises across Scotland, learn more here.
Chef News is sponsored by Kitchen Porters Club
