The Vineyard is celebrating its 20 year anniversary, and to mark this milestone they have created a culinary festival to celebrate the great talents who have been through their kitchen.
From Monday 25th June to Sunday 1st July, seven fantastic Michelin starred chefs who have previously worked at The Vineyard will be showcasing their culinary excellence which will include:
Shay Cooper, Nathan Outlaw, Matt Gillan, Richard Davies, John Campbell, Daniel Galmiche and Billy Reid.
Why did you want to get involved with Back to the Vine?
I was actually the second chef at The Vineyard and I was the first person to gain a star there. That was quite important! The Managing Director of The Vineyard is a great friend of mine – Andrew McKenzie and I think it’s just a nice thing to do. I appreciate everything the Michael’s (who are the proprietors) have done.
Can you tell me a bit more about working as the executive chef at The Vineyard – what was this like and what did you enjoy most about your time there?
At the time it was probably the best kitchen in Britain (the actual internals of the kitchen) it was very state of the art. Also, the hotel had only been open for three months when I joined. It was all new and it was nice to be in at the start of something.
Do you have any favourite memories from your time at The Vineyard that you are particularly fond of?
Gaining a star and maintaining a star! At the time, The Vineyard had nothing and we gained a star within ten months. It was accelerated for want of a better word. It was really refreshing.
What are you most looking forward to about taking part in Back to the Vine?
Just going back to The Vineyard and giving something back really.
You will be cooking with The Vineyard’s current head chef Robby Jenks and his brigade on Sunday 1st July, how are you planning the menu?
Sort of! It just needs finalising. I am going to cook stuff that I cooked when I was there. It’s a bit retro!
How beneficial do you think these chef collaborations are and what do you enjoy most about it?
I like it – I spend my life with cooks!
Find out why Shay Cooper is returning to The Vineyard
Find out why Nathan Outlaw is returning to The Vineyard
Find out why Matt Gillan is returning to The Vineyard
Find out why Richard Davies is returning to The Vineyard
Find out why John Campbell is returning to The Vineyard
Find out why Daniel Galmiche is returning to The Vineyard
