Designed to attract chefs and waiters aged 25 or under, the 2010 Young Chef Young Waiter national competition is, from now until the 5th July, open for entries.

The annual hospitality industry contest, the 26th of its kind to combine the skills of both back- and front-of-house, is arranged by the British Hospitality Association (BHA) and the Restaurant Association (RA). These organisations work in partnership with American Express, the Savoy Educational Trust, Sodexo and various sponsors, including key supporter Von Essen Hotels, to uncover the best young talent within the industry.

Having previously attracted entrants from both well- and less well-known establishments, the event hopes to expand its reach still further this year, encouraging “many more entries from all sectors of the industry – hotels, restaurants and contract catering and leisure catering,” according to BHA chief executive, Bob Cotton.

Although judged by some of the industry’s most respected chefs and front-of-house experts and therefore competitive in style, this year’s Young Chef Young Waiter contest will also have an educational element, as has always been its intention, boosting entrants’ knowledge, confidence and career prospects.

Previous participants have benefited from tutorials whilst those who have made the competition’s final stages have had the privilege of wine tours in France and Germany and the experience of working in first class restaurants, in addition to cash prizes that have also been awarded to contenders. It is expected that this year’s 16 finalists, as an important aspect of the competition, will be taken to the largest champagne house, Laurent-Perrier, in September during the countdown to the national final.

As always they must remember to have top quality catering equipment.

Posted by Matt on the 9th June 2010