Réunion des Gastronomes' Gastronomes 2019 award is now open for entries, giving an opportunity for mentoring by senior members of the hospitality industry, the chance to attend five Réunion des Gastronome events in the year.
Also part of the winner's package is a range of bespoke industry-based development experiences, and a two-year complimentary Associate membership of the organisation.
These are also prizes on offer to the winner of the Réunion des Gastronomes President's Award this year.
Last year's winner, Andras Lakezi (pictured left), food and drink manager at the Kimpton Fitzroy London, is already enjoying some initial fruits of his success. The Réunion arranged for him to join the judges of the Institute of Hospitality's UK Restaurant Manager of the Year finals at the Savoy in January, and plans are in place for him to study for the WSET qualifications.
This is now the third year of the competition and the Réunion is very pleased with the increasing numbers, and calibre, of entrants.
All the finalists will receive an invitation to attend the Gastronome's annual Grouse Supper on Monday September 23 prior to the judging panel's final decision. They will also each receive an invitation for them (and guest) to attend the Annual Banquet on Friday 1 November when the winner will be announced. The remaining finalists will receive certificates and an invitation to become an Associate Member of the Réunion des Gastronomes.
The Award is open to anyone working full-time, at a team management level or above, in food and beverage services in the hospitality industry, within the United Kingdom. Closing date for applications is Friday 2 August 2019.
This Réunion des Gastronomes organisation, believed to be the oldest culinary organisation in the UK, has members from many sectors of the hospitality industry, including hotels, clubs, caterers, sports stadia, universities, event companies and consultants.