Meet the National Chef of the Year 2018 finalists: Will Holland
National Chef of the Year 2018 finalist, Will Holland is executive chef at The Atlantic Hotel in Jersey
Will’s first taste of Michelin starred food was at the two star Lettonie with Martin Blunos at 12 years of age. After leaving school Will spent two years at catering college before landing his first culinary role under Gary Jones at Homewood Park in Bath. This was followed by stints at Gravetye Manor, Alan Murchison’s L’Ortolan and later a head chef position at Alan’s sister restaurant La Bécasse where he was awarded his first Michelin star. Will opened Coast restaurant three years ago which has since gone on to achieve two rosettes in the AA Restaurant Guide and be named AA Restaurant of the Year in Wales 2015-2016.
It was announced earlier this year that Will would be leaving his post as head chef at Coast Restaurant to join The Atlantic Hotel in Jersey as executive chef.
How did it feel to get through to the final?
It felt great but it also made me think 'the hard work starts now'. The semi final in London was a mad experience and the kitchen was a crazy environment to be in. It's not until you take part in it until you realise who you're up against and the incredibly high standard of competition you're in the mix with. I was pleased I was able to cook to my ability on the day and my dishes were good enough to take me to the final.
Why did you enter National Chef of the Year?
David Mulcahy (Vice-President of the Craft Guild of Chefs) persuaded me to enter because I have always used the excuse 'I don't have enough time' in the past. I'm confident in my skill level but wanted to put it in the mix with other chefs in the UK to see how it compares.
On Tuesday, October 3 a new National Chef of the Year will be crowned. We take a closer look at this year's finalists hoping to produce winning dishes at the final at The Restaurant Show, which will impress the judging panel.
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