Nestlé Professional has unveiled the final winners of the 35th anniversary edition of Toque d’Or. After battling it out during Grand Finals Week on 5-9th June, Amber Clay and Joshua Kerr have been named the champions of this year’s competition at an awards ceremony at Landing 42, London.
Back of House winner, Amber Clay, and Front of House winner, Joshua Kerr, will be heading on a once in a lifetime trip to Brazil where they’ll immerse themselves in São Paulo's vibrant gastronomy, learn about sustainable coffee in Espírito Santo, and go sightseeing in Rio de Janeiro. They'll learn about regenerative farming techniques at a Nescafé Plan coffee farm, before watching the beans being transformed into coffee at one of its leading flavour development labs.
12 finalists took part in sustainability-inspired challenges throughout Grand Finals Week, giving them the chance to demonstrate their new skills. The participants crafted sustainably sourced menus, foraged for food, and learnt about sustainable farming and production.
Throughout the week, finalists enjoyed mentorship and advice from an industry leading judging panel as well as several guest judges and partners. The judges included award winning chef and restauranteur, Tommy Banks; MasterChef Festive Knockout winner, Louisa Ellis; educator, sommelier and wine expert, Raul Diaz; and the 2021 Front of House Toque d’Or winner, Sophie Taylor.
Katya Simmons, Managing Director of Nestlé Professional UK&I, said: “Once again, the calibre of Toque d’Or competitors has been outstanding. We've been delighted by the talent we've seen for our 35th anniversary edition, and we’d like to congratulate everyone who made it through and poured their hearts and souls into the Grand Finals.”
“The competition epitomises our commitment to working closely with industry to support the next generation of hospitality professionals, providing them with the platform to really showcase their skills and creative flair.”
“A big thank you to all who helped make this Finals Week - and indeed the whole of this year’s Toque d’Or so special.”
Find out more about Toque d’Or 2023 and the Grand Finals Week here.