Isaac Griffin, Chef de Partie at Hotel Indigo Manchester’s Mamucium restaurant, has been named the winner of the first Rising Star Hotel Chef competition, run by tableware manufacturer, Steelite UK.
The national competition sought talent from young hotel chefs aged 18-30. From over 60 initial entries, Isaac claimed the title with his winning dish of pan-fried chicken breast with crispy chicken skin and pancetta and white kidney bean ragu, served with potato pearls and thyme glazed carrots; plated on a Steelite Willow Deep Rimmed Bowl.
As well as the title of Steelite UK’s Rising Star Hotel Chef 2019, Isaac also wins a three-night culinary experience for two to New York City which includes attendance at renowned chef conference, StarChef International, and £2,500 of Steelite product for his establishment.
Delighted with his win, Griffin said, “I’m so pleased to have won the competition. The process can be nerve wracking but I kept composed to create a dish that I was happy with. I’ve never been to America before so I’m really looking forward to the trip, it will be a great experience for me”.
The judging panel comprised of acclaimed chefs Simon Hulstone and Asma Khan, FBMA vice chairman Antonio Vigorito and assistant editor of Supper Magazine, Richard Frost. Competing alongside Isaac in the final was Marv Umali (Cliveden House Hotel), Jean Christian Gras (Hilton Park Lane) and Daniel Radley (Gilpin Hotel and Lake House).
Kim Matienzo, VP Marketing said, “We have had a brilliant first Rising Star Hotel chef competition final. The quantity and quality of entries we received was high and for our finalists to have made it through was no easy task, they should be very proud of themselves. I’m delighted to have seen the chefs out of their comfort zone and getting creative with their dishes, it has definitely set the bar for the next run which we look forward to launching soon.”