Tag: hospitality

Is Edinburgh home to Scotland’s best hotel bars?

WITH the opening of some seriously swoon (eh? – Ed.)Edinburgh hotels, could it be argued nowhere in the country compares? If your favourite dwelling also knows its way around a delicious drinks menu, now is your chance to share their successes and help crown them top of the Scots. 

There are just under two weeks left to enter Scotland’s longest-running licensed trade awards – dubbed the ‘hospitality Oscars’ – the Scottish Bar & Pub Awards 2022.

Back bigger and better this year, the prestigious annual event is looking for the best hotel establishment in YOUR area that deserves recognition for its stunning bar.  

Have you been wowed by the views from the stunning Gleneagles Townhouse rooftop bar? Has the impressive Commons Club in the Virgin Hotel caressed your tastebuds with a cocktail offering? Or have the decadent surroundings of the House of Gods bar made you feel like royalty for the evening? Or about new cocktail speakeasy called Counter in Native Edinburgh? Well now is your chance to shout about it!

At the 27th annual event, category sponsors Old Tom Gin 1821 are looking to hear from staff, customers and community members who would like to see their much-loved Edinburgh establishment take home the coveted accolade.

Nominations are open until 30 June and establishments have the chance to be shortlisted across 18 amazing categories including the Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year, the Molinari Casual Dining Award or the Pernod Ricard Best Late Night Venue. 

The Scottish capital impressed judges last year, with the manager of the Black Ivy, Tony Craig, triumphing in the bar manager of the year category. If one of your favourite bars has a staff member who goes beyond the call of duty, we would love to hear about them too.

The prestigious awards also look to celebrate rising stars in the industry, community-minded establishments and overall give a much-needed boost to those championing the late night economy. 

New for 2022, The Molson Coors Scottish Bar of the year award will look to recognise operators that offer something special for their locals, or are full of exceptional teams that make the industry so vibrant and fresh. 

Organiser, Susan Young said: “Scotland has the best people and our awards are here to commend those charismatic individuals and their incredible venues that make up Scotland’s unparalleled hospitality landscape.  But they need your help to vote for them. Reward the efforts of your favourite pub or bar and vote now on The Scottish Bar & Pub Awards website.”

To enter your local hotel bar into this year’s awards, simply vote online to cast your nomination. Every vote counts as the ten competitors with the most votes from each category will receive a visit from ‘mystery shoppers’ before the finalists are revealed.

Following a judging process, the winners will then be announced at a glittering award ceremony on 30th August 2022 at The Hilton Hotel, in Glasgow.

Nominations are now open across Scotland for The Scottish Bar & Pub Awards 2022. Voting closes on the 30th June 2022. 

For more information, head to https://scottishbarandpubawards.com

Follow online:

https://www.instagram.com/scottishbarpubawards/
https://twitter.com/scotbarpubaward 

CATEGORIES AND CRITERIA

Antos Dog Friendly Pub of the Year 

Obviously a pub that welcomes dogs… with great facilities and perhaps even treats for their four-legged customers. 

ARO Procurement Customer Service Award

Judges will be looking for a pub, restaurant or hotel which fully embraces the customer service ethos.

Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year

Gordon & MacPhail, one of Scotland’s premiere whisky companies, is looking for a whisky bar that excels and has a great range.

Buzzworks and Montpeliers Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year

Buzzworks and Montpeliers, two of Scotland’s premiere hospitality businesses, are seeking an up and coming entrepreneur. The prize is a year’s mentoring…

Deanston Whisky Guru of the Year

This category is for people who not only have a great knowledge of whisky.

DRAM Community Pub of the Year

Judges here will be looking for a special pub, which is not only part of the community but supports it too.

DRAM Independent Pub Group of the Year

The DRAM is on the look-out for Scotland’s top Independent Pub Group.

Hi-Spirits Best Live Music Venue 2022

Live music is very much part of a vibrant night life, aand judes are looking for Scotland’s best.

Hungrrr Technology Adopter of The Year

Hospitality operators that embrace technology to keepe their business on track and driving them forward.

Inverarity Morton Restaurant of the Year

A memorable meal in a memorable restaurant – where have you been that has impressed?

Kopparberg New Bar of the Year

Is there a great new bar near you that deserves an award?  

Molinari Casual Dining Award 2022

Recongised relaxed atmosphere venues that  serve good value quality food.

Molson Coors Scottish Bar Of The Year

This inaugural award is seeking out Scotland’s best bars that have been around for more than a year.

Old Tom Gin 1821 Hotel Bar of the Year

Do you have a hotel that you love to go to relax and enjoy the great outdoors that also has a great bar?

Pernod Ricard Best Late Night Venue

Pernod Ricard, the brand owners with Havana Club, Beefeater, and Chivas in its portfolio, is looking for a late night venue that exemplifies what is good and great about late night socialising.

Sunday Mail Pub of the Year

This year the Sunday Mail Pub of the Year Award will go to the most voted for pub in Scotland at the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards.

Stolichnaya Award for Sustainability

This award is aimed at bars, restaurants or hotels that operate with an effective and sustainability agenda, from reducing plastic waste to conserving energy – it all matters. 

The Busker Innovative Cocktail Bar of the Year

The Busker is an innovative ‘new to the world’ Irish Whiskey which is seeking out Scotland’s most innovative Cocktail Bar. It is looking for a bar which marries traditions with a contemporary look and which empowers bartenders to go beyond their limitations and create flavour-curious (great) cocktails.

William Grant & Sons Bar Apprentice of the Year 2022

The Bar Apprentice is back for with a bespoke programme for this year’s apprentices – an experience you can’t buy!

Virgin Hotels Edinburgh announces opening of luxury restaurant and bar

Virgin Hotels, the luxury lifestyle hotel brand by Virgin Group founder Sir Richard Branson, announces that its flagship restaurant and bar, Commons Club, located inside the newly opened Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, is now open. 

The luxurious modern day social club will officially open to the public on Tuesday 14th June. For those eager to get ahead of the crowd, reservations can now be made directly on the hotel’s website at https://virginhotels.com/edinburgh/dine-and-drink/the-commons-club/. 

Nestled across two floors, Commons Club is designed to be a playful yet sophisticated environment for guests to eat, drink and vibe in the heart of Edinburgh and will showcase contemporary Scottish seasonal cuisine using the freshest produce straight from Scotland’s local larder for diners. 

Newly appointed Executive Chef, Steven Wilson, has created a menu that will cater to all tastes. For starters, guests can enjoy an array of stunning dishes including, Ceviche with line-caught & cured wild seabass, shaved fennel, dill, nashi pear & green olive puree; Wagyu Tataki with Scottish wagyu beef “Tataki style”, fried garlic, ponzu green onion puree & parsnip crisp and Risotto with Scottish farm spelt & barley risotto, baby morels, lightly-roasted almonds & shaved fresh summer truffle. 

 

Moving onto mains, guests can choose between Halibut with pan-seared Gigha halibut, confit aromatic farm seasonal vegetables in a light saffron & Shetland blue mussels velouté; slow roast Perthshire chicken “dinner” with fondant potato, baby leek, morel mushrooms & fresh peas, crispy chicken & Pata Negra croquet, bread sauce, roast chicken jus & chive oil and Isle of Mull seaweed tortellini pasta filled with wild herb ricotta, clay oven-roasted artichoke, pea & feve etuvee, vegetarian parmesan air. 

Guests can also explore a range of bespoke cocktails created with locality in mind, helping to bring a sense of Scotland into each of the flavours. From a ‘Breakfast in the Highlands’ made with Glenfiddich 15 Single Malt Whisky, Brown Butter, Toasted Oat Amontillado Sherry, Heather Honey and Bittered Sling Kensington Aromatic, to a ‘Queen Street’ made with Bacardi Carta Blanca Rum, Martini Reserva Ambrato, Lemon, Celery Bitters and Islay mist, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.  

Commons Club is situated within the brand-new Virgin Hotels Edinburgh located in the landmark India Buildings in Edinburgh’s Old Town, a stone’s throw from Edinburgh Castle. The finished hotel will feature 222 Chambers and Grand Chamber Suites and multiple dining and drinking outlets, all with their own unique space and distinct design.

Accompanying Commons Club later in the year will be Eve, a vibrant, all-day dining space, offering a progressive approach to late night entertainment in Edinburgh. The hotel site is also home to a 19th century church, known as Greyfriars Hall, that is being beautifully restored and repurposed as a special event venue.  In addition, the hotel will offer a rooftop sanctuary with unobstructed Edinburgh Castle views. 

Scott McArdle, General Manager of Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, commented: “Edinburgh is such an iconic city and we’re thrilled it will be the home of our flagship restaurant and bar within the first Virgin Hotels in the UK and across Europe.

“Commons Club is a unique offering that will complement the current offering of the hotel. The food and drink menus will bring an array of local flavours to the table and can’t wait to welcome everyone in to try them.”  

Steven Wilson, Executive Chef of Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, said: “After years of travelling the world and working in some unforgettable restaurants and hotels, I’m so excited to be back in my hometown and to be part of this iconic opening in Edinburgh.  

“We really do have access to the highest quality local produce right on our doorstep in Scotland and that’s something the menu at Commons Club celebrates. Guests will enjoy our timeless menu that will continue to evolve with the seasons, keeping them coming back time and time again.” 

All guests can sign up for the brand-wide guest preferences and loyalty program ‘The Know’, which grants a personalised hotel experience that allows for access to room upgrades, member rates, special events and a complimentary cocktail hour in Commons Club – all when booking directly with Virgin Hotels. 

All Chambers and Suites have integrated tech capabilities, which can control lighting, thermostats, TVs, and order room service directly via the mobile app, Lucy which is exclusively available to Know members.

Lucy also gives guests the ability to check in prior to arrival and can be used as an access key to their Chambers. Chambers are also pet friendly, with complimentary ‘pet-menities’ available, including dog beds and food and water dishes.  

The hotel has been developed and is owned by Flemyn and managed by Virgin Hotels. 

Reservations for the hotel are also open and can be made directly on the hotel’s website www.virginhotels.com/edinburgh.  

Follow along on social media, Instagram @commonsclubedi, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube 

Punters asked to crown Scotland’s very best cocktail bars

As the country heads out to enjoy the Queen’s Jubilee long weekend, punters are being asked to nominate and ‘crown’ Scotland’s very best cocktail bars. 

Whether a venue is celebrating its very own Platinum Jubilee with 70 years of service, or has only been open for a few months – nominations are now open at the Scottish Bar & Pub Awards. 

Seeking out the nation’s most creative drinks, ‘The Busker Innovative Cocktail Bar of the Year’ award is looking for cocktails fit for a Queen or tailor-made to impress for the long bank holiday weekend that deserve recognition. 

Votes have been rolling so far in for late night cocktail bar Orchid in Aberdeen, the eccentric Raging Bull in Edinburgh, modern Scotch pub, The Gate in Glasgow and hidden bar, Absent Ear. 

Dubbed the hospitality ‘Oscars’, The Scottish Bar & Pub Awards aim to reward the best of the best, crowning venues and raising a glass to an industry which has been hard hit during the past few years. 

Anyone can nominate their favourite pub and voting closes 30th June 2022. Submit your favourite cocktail bar now at www.scottishbarandpubawards.com 

Now in their 27th year, the awards shine a spotlight on all aspects of the hospitality industry, with this year’s cocktail bar search focussing on a venue which empowers bartenders to push their limits and creative masterful cocktails which marry traditional elements with contemporary looks.

Whether your local excels in inventive Margaritas, puts their signature twist on an Old Fashioned or makes the perfect Manhattan, the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards want to recognise them. 

Every vote counts as the top ten competitors from each category will receive a visit from ‘mystery shoppers’ before the esteemed finalists are revealed. 

Organiser of the awards, Susan Young said: “Scotland’s major cities such as Glasgow and Edinburgh are well-known for their vast cocktail selection, but at the Scottish Bar & Pub Awards we want to cast the net wider and ensure venues all across the country are recognised for their creative cocktail work.

“Whether your local bar has concocted a taste sensation in celebration of the upcoming Jubilee Weekend, or you are a local bartender constantly providing your patrons with new and inventive cocktails to try – we want to hear from you. Support local and reward the hard work of Scotland’s hospitality industry. “

The national search has almost 20 categories focussed on celebrating rising stars in the industry, community led initiatives, sustainability practices, late night venues and many more.

Awards vary from ‘ARO Procurement Customer Service Award’ for pubs, restaurants or hotels which embrace exceptional customer service or even the  ‘Antos Dog Friendly Pub of the Year’, rewarding venues for going above and beyond for patrons’  four-legged friends. 

The prestigious awards work to provide a much-needed boost to those championing the late night economy, from Scotland’s metropolitan city centre bars and restaurants to snug hideaways on the northernmost islands. 

The Scottish Bar & Pub Awards encourage all those in the community to get involved, rewarding your local pub or bar for all of those perfect pints they’ve pulled over the years! Guests and staff can simply vote online to cast your nomination. 

Following a public vote  judging process, the winners will then be announced at a glamorous award ceremony on 30th August 2022 at The Hilton Hotel, in Glasgow. Voting closes on the 30th June 2022. 

For more information, head to https://scottishbarandpubawards.com Follow online:

https://www.instagram.com/scottishbarpubawards/
https://twitter.com/scotbarpubaward 

CATEGORIES AND CRITERIA

Antos Dog Friendly Pub of the Year 

Obviously a pub that welcomes dogs… with great facilities and perhaps even treats for their four-legged customers. 

ARO Procurement Customer Service Award
Judges will be looking for a pub, restaurant or hotel which fully embraces the customer service ethos.

Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year
Gordon & MacPhail, one of Scotland’s premiere whisky companies, is looking for a whisky bar that excels and has a great range.

Buzzworks and Montpeliers Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year
Buzzworks and Montpeliers, two of Scotland’s premiere hospitality businesses, are seeking an up and coming entrepreneur. The prize is a year’s mentoring…

Deanston Whisky Guru of the Year
This category is for people who not only have a great knowledge of whisky.

DRAM Community Pub of the Year
Judges here will be looking for a special pub, which is not only part of the community but supports it too.

DRAM Independent Pub Group of the Year
The DRAM is on the look-out for Scotland’s top Independent Pub Group.

Hi-Spirits Best Live Music Venue 2022
Live music is very much part of a vibrant night life, aand judes are looking for Scotland’s best.

Hungrrr Technology Adopter of The Year
Hospitality operators that embrace technology to keepe their business on track and driving them forward.

Inverarity Morton Restaurant of the Year
A memorable meal in a memorable restaurant – where have you been that has impressed?

Kopparberg New Bar of the Year
Is there a great new bar near you that deserves an award?  

Molinari Casual Dining Award 2022
Recongised relaxed atmosphere venues that  serve good value quality food.

Molson Coors Scottish Bar Of The Year
This inaugural award is seeking out Scotland’s best bars that have been around for more than a year.

Old Tom Gin 1821 Hotel Bar of the Year
Do you have a hotel that you love to go to relax and enjoy the great outdoors that also has a great bar?

Pernod Ricard Best Late Night Venue
Pernod Ricard, the brand owners with Havana Club, Beefeater, and Chivas in its portfolio, is looking for a late night venue that exemplifies what is good and great about late night socialising.

Sunday Mail Pub of the Year
This year the Sunday Mail Pub of the Year Award will go to the most voted for pub in Scotland at the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards.

Stolichnaya Award for Sustainability

This award is aimed at bars, restaurants or hotels that operate with an effective and sustainability agenda, from reducing plastic waste to conserving energy – it all matters. 

The Busker Innovative Cocktail Bar of the Year
The Busker is an innovative ‘new to the world’ Irish Whiskey which is seeking out Scotland’s most innovative Cocktail Bar. It is looking for a bar which marries traditions with a contemporary look and which empowers bartenders to go beyond their limitations and create flavour-curious (great) cocktails.

William Grant & Sons Bar Apprentice of the Year 2022
The Bar Apprentice is back for with a bespoke programme for this year’s apprentices – an experience you can’t buy!

Fort Kinnaird launches new local employment project

Fort Kinnaird has collaborated with Capital City Partnership to launch a recruitment project that will support local people with employment opportunities and achieve new qualifications.

The Focus on Recruitment and Training (FORT) scheme is running for three years and is situated next to the Fort Kinnaird Management Suite. The free service is available for people aged 16 and over and works to identify potential roles for jobseekers with local employers, including retailers at the centre.

The FORT project also includes the delivery of youth focused training courses on Retail and Customer Service, for those aged between 16 and 24. 

The scheme’s inaugural course will run from Monday 27th June until Friday 8th July and will feature an SQA accredited Customer Service qualification, support with CV building, job applications and interview tips along with an opportunity to be interviewed by a recruiting Fort Kinnaird retailer.

FORT is funded by Fort Kinnaird’s co-owner, British Land, and in kind support from the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal.

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “As a hub for many local communities, it’s extremely important to us that we use Fort Kinnaird’s scale to support projects that will make a real difference to the lives of those living closest to us. 

“We’re so pleased that the new FORT project will be available for people to access free advice, training and job opportunities and provide them with the difficult first step into employment or the jump between careers.”

Kenny Hall, integrated employer engagement officer at Capital City Partnership, said: “Retail and Hospitality are two industries that have suffered significantly in terms of staffing off the back of the pandemic, and employers at Fort Kinnaird are no different.

“Through the new FORT project, we hope to upskill and retrain people from the local community to fill the recruitment gaps at Fort Kinnaird and the surrounding area.

“To register your interest in our first course, please email: TrainingAcademy@capitalcitypartnership.org or drop in to see us at the Recruitment and Skills Centre situated within Fleming House at Fort Kinnaird”

For more information on Fort Kinnaird, visit: 

https://www.fortkinnaird.com/community/recruitment-skills-centre-fort-kinnaird or www.rscfortkinnaird.co.uk.

New Coffee and Cocktail Speakeasy to launch in Native Edinburgh 

An exciting new speakeasy is being launched in the capital next month. 

As part of a major refurbishment for boutique aparthotel group, Native, the imaginative concept called Counter will serve coffee by day and cocktails by night in a new hidden destination bar in the heart of the city centre. 

The Counter at Native Edinburgh will be home to a curation of eclectic food and events, highlighting local produce in the daytime and spotlighting homegrown talent at night. 

Late summer programming will see Native hosting everything from neo-soul jazz nights, record listening to spoken word poetry, and the venue will shine a light on up and coming creatives from around the city, including artists, writers, musicians and more. Native Edinburgh will soon become the capital’s best-kept secret with speak-easy vibes and cocktails galore. 

Their drinks menu has local collaborations with Edinburgh drink specialists Mothership HQ and Base Spirits Collective, which will see innovative cocktails like Pocket Negroni and Hippy Fizz available alongside craft sodas from Bon Accord and locally-sourced coffee from Red Squirrel. 

Counter will also serve a range of bespoke bagels, sandwiches, treats and moreish snacks as part of their offering. 

Opening later in the month in Native, when all the new hotel refurbishments are complete, Counter will welcome all guests including non residents from 11am until 1am. 

With 82 apartments comprising studios, one bedrooms, and ground floor leisure and co-working spaces, Native Edinburgh provides the flexibility and amenities of a design-led boutique hotel, coupled with the space, comfort and privacy of a home from home. The 1790s constructed building is the perfect example of the Neoclassical and Georgian architecture in the area.

The Counter at Native Edinburgh will open later in June. 

For more information on Native aparthotels, head to:

https://www.nativeplaces.com/property/native-edinburgh/ 

Virgin Hotels Edinburgh announces Executive Chef for Commons Club

Virgin Hotels Edinburgh has announced the appointment of Steven Wilson as the new Executive Chef for its upcoming restaurant and social space, Commons Club, as it gears up to open on 1st June 2022.

Originally from Edinburgh, Steven has almost 30-years’ experience in the hospitality industry with previous roles at a number of notable five-star hotels and award-winning restaurants. Steven will use his renowned talent and international influences to showcase contemporary Scottish seasonal cuisine using the freshest produce straight from Scotland’s local larder for diners at Commons Club.

Notorious for delivering memorable and delicious dishes, Steven’s career has taken him across the globe – from helping to open the multi- award-winning Lowry Hotel in Manchester to the iconic Soneva Fushi in the Maldives.

He also has extensive experience working in the Middle East and South East Asia with the renowned Six Senses Resorts and Spas. Steven is set to combine his international experience and Scottish heritage to create a new standard of Scottish dining at Commons Club.

Nestled across two floors, Commons Club is designed to be a playful yet sophisticated environment for guests to eat, drink and vibe in the heart of Edinburgh.

Catering to all tastes, guests can enjoy an array of stunning starters, carefully curated by Steven and his expert team, including Ceviche with line-caught & cured wild seabass, shaved fennel, dill, nashi pear & green olive puree; Wagyu Tataki with Scottish wagyu beef “Tataki style”, fried garlic, ponzu green onion puree & parsnip crisp and Risotto with Scottish farm spelt & barley risotto, baby morels, lightly-roasted almonds & shaved fresh summer truffle. 

Mains include Halibut with pan-seared Gigha halibut, confit aromatic farm seasonal vegetables in a light saffron & Shetland blue mussels velouté; slow roast Perthshire chicken “dinner” with fondant potato, baby leek, morel mushrooms & fresh peas, crispy chicken & pata negra croquet, bread sauce, roast chicken jus & chive oil and Isle of Mull seaweed tortellini pasta filled with wild herb ricotta, clay oven-roasted artichoke, pea & feve etuvee,vegetarian parmesan air.

Steven Wilson, Executive Chef at Commons Club, said: “After years of travelling the world and working in some unforgettable restaurants and hotels, I’m so excited to be back in my hometown and to be part of this iconic opening in Edinburgh.

“We really do have access to the highest quality local produce right on our doorstep in Scotland and that’s something the menu at Commons Club celebrates. Guests can enjoy our timeless menu that will continue to evolve with the seasons, keeping them coming back time and time again.”

Commons Club will be the flagship restaurant in the soon-to-open Virgin Hotels Edinburgh. Situated in the landmark India Buildings of Edinburgh’s Old Town – a stone’s throw from Edinburgh Castle.

The hotel will feature Grand Chamber Suites, 222 Chamber Suites, multiple dining and drinking outlets including Commons Club and Eve: a vibrant all-day dining space offering a progressive approach to late night entertainment in Edinburgh.

The hotel site is also home to a 19th century church, now known as Greyfriars Hall, that has been beautifully restored and repurposed as a special event venue. In addition, the hotel will offer guests a rooftop sanctuary with unobstructed Edinburgh Castle views.

The Bar at Commons Club is open Monday to Sunday – 12noon to 1am. The Kitchen at Commons Club is open Monday to Sunday – 12noon to 3pm, 5pm to 10pm. For reservations, please visit https://virginhotels.com/edinburgh/dine-and-drink/the-commons-club/.

Follow along on social media, Instagram – @virginhotelsedi, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube

Intercontinental Edinburgh The George announces St Columba’s as it’s Charity Partner for the year

InterContinental Edinburgh The George has announced St Columba’s Hospice Care, a world-leading hospice providing services around Edinburgh and the Lothians, as its charity of the year.

Chosen by hotel staff, the year-long partnership launched on Wednesday (4th May), and will raise vital funds for the charity with the introduction of new ‘invisible’ items on the menu at the hotel’s food and beverage outlets.

Guests at the Printing Press Bar & Kitchen will be able to add invisible chips (£5) to their bill, while visitors at Burr & Co will be able to add an invisible coffee (£3) to their order, with all proceeds going directly to the charity. Guests visiting for corporate and business events will also have the option to add £5 to their package, which could pay an invisible coffee break for a nurse.

This support will help the independent charity’s efforts to provide palliative and end-of-life care for people with life-limiting illnesses and their families, across Edinburgh and the Lothians.

St Columba’s Hospice Care provides free, world-leading hospice care through dedicated support in homes and local communities, a state-of-the-art hospice in Scotland’s capital city, as well as working with partners on education and further research.

Amanda Southey, Corporate Development Manager, St Columba’s Hospice Care, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be chosen as InterContinental Edinburgh The George’s Charity of the Year.

“We rely on the generosity of our supporters to continue providing our vital services to patients and their families – so this partnership is really important.

“We’re excited to see what the year brings, not just in terms of fundraising, but the awareness this will help bring St Columba’s Hospice Care as we aim to deliver the best possible care and support to all the families across Edinburgh and the Lothians that need us.”

Stephanie Lee, Director of Sales, InterContinental Edinburgh The George, said: “We are so proud to partner with St Columba’s Hospice Care, a charity chosen by our staff because many have known the incredible services offered by the hospice and its team.

“Knowing that the funds raised will be used to reach more families gives us great motivation to raise as much money as we can, and we are proud to support such a deserving local cause.”

Skill shortages: Scottish kitchens waiting FIVE MONTHS to find chefs

Scottish kitchens are having to wait an average of five months to recruit and onboard chefs with the right skill set, according to research from fine-dining water S.Pellegrino.

The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy, a global initiative which is currently searching for the best chefs under 30 as part of its Young Chef Competition, surveyed over 100 chef employers to reveal some of the biggest challenges facing the hospitality industry today and identify what support the sector needs.

Challenges facing gastronomy industry

Even though the research found that across the UK, 55% of chef employers believe there is a wealth of gastronomy talent, two thirds (67%) said that the uncertainty caused by the Covid-19 pandemic has put young people off from starting a career in the industry. A vast majority (77%) went so far as to say that more effort needs to go into attracting young talent.

The research also highlighted the need for greater support for those wanting a career as a chef; 78% said there needs to be more mentoring to help young chefs thrive, and over half (56%) said there weren’t enough networks for chefs to share practice around the world.

The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy is campaigning to improve perceptions of the sector and nurture the talent of tomorrow through a global network where some of the world’s leading chefs can share ideas, best practice and inspiration.

S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition 2022-23

The S.Pellegrino Young Chef competition is now open for entrants, and chefs under 30 years of age have the chance to register for the competition until 31st May 2022, sharing the Signature Dish that expresses their unique creativity and vision. Applications will be assessed by ALMA, the International School of Italian Culinary Arts, which will draw up the shortlist of competitors ahead of the Regional Finals.

Selected participants for the UK competition will join the Regional Finals event that will take place on 11th and 12th October. 

They will show their talent and compete in front of a prestigious jury made up of renowned members of the chef community, including:

·       Jason Atherton: Jason launched his flagship London restaurant, Pollen Street Social in April 2011, which was awarded a coveted Michelin star within six months of opening. Since then, his global restaurant group, ‘The Social Company’, has won multiple awards and accolades for its contribution to the UK restaurant scene. Jason now operates seven acclaimed London restaurants, two of which hold Michelin stars, and a further 7 international outposts in New York, The Philippines, Mykonos and St Moritz

·       Francesco Mazzei: Francesco Mazzei spent the early part of his career working in major cities such as Rome and London before going on to open restaurants in the likes of Edinburgh, Milan, and Bangkok. In 2008, Francesco went on to open his first restaurant in London, L’Anima, with a menu inspired by traditional cooking from Calabria, Puglia, Sicily, and Sardinia. He has also been Chef Patron at Sartoria in Mayfair since 2015 as well as Radici, a neighbourhood trattoria in Islington, and Fiume, a riverside restaurant in Battersea.

·       Lisa Goodwin Allen: Lisa Goodwin-Allen is a British chef best known for being executive chef of the Michelin starred Northcote restaurant. She also won BBC’s cooking show Great British Menu. 

·       Claude Bosi: Known for combining highly skilled classical techniques with the world’s best produce, Claude Bosi is one of the best chefs in the UK today. After rising to the top at his restaurant Hibiscus, he now mans the kitchen at the two Michelin-starred Bibendum in London.

·       Sally Abe: After cutting her teeth at the likes of Brett Graham’s The Ledbury and Phil Howard’s Elystan Street, Sally Abé rose to fame at The Harwood Arms. She’s now at the helm of The Pem inside the Conrad London St James hotel, along with three accompanying establishments.

·       Skye Gyngell: Skye Gyngell works closely with biodynamic farm Fern Verrow to bring the UK’s best produce to London. Skye has an emphasis on simple, zero-waste cookery.

·       Sat Bains: Best known for being the chef proprietor of the two-Michelin star Restaurant Sat Bains with Rooms in Nottingham, England. He won the Roux Scholarship in 1999, and worked in France, before returning to the UK and opening his own restaurant. Bains was also one of the winners on the BBC show Great British Menu in 2007.

The research found that 76% believe that top fine dining chefs are the biggest inspiration for young chefs, which is why S.Pellegrino works with leading chefs every year to be part of this initiative.

Commenting on being part of the UK jury, Jason Atheron said: “It’s a pleasure to be part of the S.Pellegrino Young Chef judging panel.

“Now more than ever we need to inspire and nurture the next generation of chefs and this competition helps to do just that. There is so much talent within our industry and to be able to spot and highlight these extraordinary individuals is an honour.”

Sat Bains added: “It’s so important to put the future of our industry first – and the best way to do this is by shining a spotlight on young chefs.

“Therefore, I am honoured and privileged to be involved – and I look forward to meeting the finalists in October.”

Skye Gyngell commented: “When I was starting out in my career, I always looked to other chefs for inspiration – so being able to work with, future talent is something that’s incredibly important to me.

“S.Pellegrino’s Young Chef Academy is all about celebrating and nurturing young talent, something we must do for our industry to continue to thrive.”

The current edition, opening the Regional Finals to a higher number of competitors (175 young chefs representing at least 50 different Countries/Regions), will offer even more opportunities for young talent to embark on a culinary journey that will bring visibility, prestige and the chance to compete for the global S. Pellegrino Young Chef Award at a Grand Finale in Milan in 2023.

As with the 2019/21 edition, the 2022/23 competition will also feature three additional awards alongside the main prize: the S.Pellegrino Award for Social Responsibility voted for by the Sustainable Restaurant Association which runs the Food Made Good program, the Acqua Panna Award for Connection in Gastronomy voted for by the competition mentors, and the Fine Dining Lovers Food for Thought Award voted for by Fine Dining Lovers readers.

To start the application and discover more about the initiative please visit: 

https://www.sanpellegrinoyoungchefacademy.com/the-competition/application-form

Ryrie’s thrives following funding support from Royal Bank of Scotland

One of Edinburgh’s oldest pubs is going from strength to strength following restoration by new owners, thanks to a funding deal worth £1.6 million from Royal Bank of Scotland.

Ryrie’s, originally built in the 1800s as a fuelling station for horse and carts, has had its exterior and interior restored to its former glory after £250k worth of refurbishment by new owners D M Stewart Ltd, which bought the Haymarket stalwart just before the pandemic for £2.9 million.

The lending by The Royal Bank of Scotland to the 150-year-old family run business, allowed brothers Christian and David Stewart to add to their portfolio of impressive freehold sites in Scotland’s capital. Use of The Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS) supported the business during the pandemic, and allowed the company to quickly progress the pub’s restoration.

Banking with Royal Bank of Scotland since the 1990s, D M Stewart Ltd was grateful for the support received from the bank, allowing the business to go ahead with not only the purchase and restoration of Ryrie’s, but also to continue employing bar staff allowing for a quick return to trading across its sites when restrictions eased.

With aims to continue to build upon its four Victorian Public Houses across Edinburgh, D M Stewart Ltd reopened Ryrie’s in February 2022 having weathered the pandemic. The venue has enjoyed great success ever since with new and regular customers visiting to eat, drink and socialise.

Christian Stewart, Joint Managing Director at D M Stewart Ltd, said: “Once we had purchased the site with the assistance of The Royal Bank of Scotland, we were determined to return the space to its heyday in 1906 when it was redesigned by the famous city architect Robert McFarlane Cameron.

“It was important for us to refine what Ryrie’s already had rather than following trends and fads within the sector.

“We are lucky enough to have a banking partner which understands our business vision, as well as the Edinburgh commercial property market. Welcoming back customers to soak in the beauty of one of the city’s oldest public houses has been delight for our entire team.

“We’re pleased to report that Ryrie’s has created and helped retain jobs for our staff, with the expectation of more to come with the return of tourists and as the development of Haymarket progresses.”

Jason Cram, Relationship Director at Royal Bank of Scotland, said: “Although they specialise in classic style pubs, D M Stewart Ltd has always been forward thinking in its approach to the protection of traditional pubs and what they mean to the community they are located within.

“It’s been brilliant to be able to support this family-run business and see Ryrie’s succeed thanks to the hard-work of D M Stewart Ltd and its committed staff.”

Learning for Life: Students celebrate success at Johnnie Walker Princes Street graduation ceremony

Nine students have celebrated their graduation at the Johnnie Walker Princes Street Learning for Life Academy in a special ceremony hosted within the new visitor experience to toast their success.

The students have completed the six-week bartending and hospitality course which offers young people entry level training in bartending and hospitality, including work experience in local pubs, bars and restaurants.

All participants of this cohort have been offered the opportunity to interview for a role at Gleneagles Townhouse in Edinburgh, which is due to open in spring 2022 in a major move which will see the iconic brand expand beyond the Perthshire hills for the first time in its almost 100-year history.

Congratulating the students on their graduation, Gleneagles’ Director of People & Culture, Emma Simpson, said: “Hospitality is an industry like no other.  Dynamic, exciting and rewarding in equal measure, there are very few career paths that present the same breadth of roles and opportunities for continuous professional development and progression.

“It’s wonderful to see so many young people kickstarting their hospitality careers through this programme which is helping to nurture the next generation of talent here in Edinburgh.  We’re thrilled for the graduates and look forward to following and supporting them as they progress in their careers.”

Diageo Learning for Life is an award-winning bartender training programme, through which the company invests £1m-per-year in offering opportunities to young unemployed people in the UK to get into hospitality careers.

Since launch in Scotland in 2014, over 4,000 people have graduated from the programme with 88% going on to sustained employment and a further 6% going on to further education.

Ewan Ritchie, from Midlothian, is celebrating his graduation from the course which has recently completed in Edinburgh, only the second course to be held in the new Learning for Life Academy at Johnnie Walker Princes Street.

The new Johnnie Walker Princes Street visitor experience has a dedicated bar for the Learning for Life programme, giving students access to world class training. The academy provides ample space for presentations, tutorials and lessons as well as a large, open bar area where people can learn and hone the skills they learn.

Ewan, said: “The last six weeks have been absolutely fantastic and I am so grateful to have been able to work with such a wonderful team to kickstart my career in hospitality.

“My favourite part of the course was learning practical skills and gaining product knowledge from inspirational trainers and Ambassadors within the Industry]. I really look forward to starting my full time front of house role within the new Gleneagles Townhouse.”

Gillian Dalziel, Learning for Life Programme Manager in the UK said:  “Congratulations to all the students that have graduated today. It has been great to see all their hard work come to fruition.

“At Diageo we aim to promote sustainable growth through inclusive programmes and Learning for Life plays an important role in giving young people the opportunity to kickstart a career in such a vibrant industry.”

The Learning for Life course in Edinburgh was delivered by Diageo partner The Springboard Charity, who works closely with Diageo to ensure the highest quality training and experience is delivered to Learning for Life students.

Chris Gamm, CEO of Springboard, said: “This has been another hugely successful course, delivered to a group of engaged and enthusiastic individuals in Scotland.

“We couldn’t be more proud of the graduates and are delighted that they have all been offered interviews at Gleneagles Townhouse. The Learning for Life Academy at Johnnie Walker Princes Street is already proving itself as a vital training centre, making a positive impact on improving the hospitality talent pipeline in Edinburgh.”

To find out more about Diageo Learning for Life and how to apply, please visit: 

https://www.diageo.com/en/society-2030/champion-inclusion-and-diversity/inclusive-communities/skills-empowerment/