On 8th April 2014 at Trafford College, chefs from across Greater Manchester competed to represent their County in the North West Young Chef competition sponsored by Essential Cuisine and CHR Equipment.
The winner of the coveted title was Steven Halligan, 20, from Room Restaurant in Manchester and also a student at The Manchester College.
His starter surprised the judges with his take on “The Curry Mile” in homage to the famous curry mile in Rusholme, but the judges were suitably impressed with the flavours and presentation of his dish.
He continued his winning menu with a main course of spring lamb with seasonal vegetables, and a dessert of “Manchester Tart.”
Steven was very pleased with his win, and said he felt nervous prior to the cook off. “I planned my menu with the support of my Head Chef James Wallis and my mentors at The Manchester College, I came up with ideas and worked on them to make my menu the best it can be.”
“I feel like I’ve improved massively over the last few months as I’ve only been cooking for 16 months, and this is my first competition.”
Judges on the day were Chairman of Judges Brian Mellor, Managing Director of Essential Cuisine Nigel Crane, and Group Executive chef for The Nelson Group Paul Prescott. Steven faced closed competition on the day from Mariusz Dobies, Abode Hotel.
Steven will join the other heat winners at a master class with an acclaimed chef in May, before going on to compete in the final of North West Young Chef Competition, which will be held at Manchester College on 18th June 2014.
