Jason Atherton and Jose Pizarro among chefs appearing at The Restaurant Show 2012
Kicking off in exactly two months' time, the three-day trade show at Earls Court 2 in London will see Atherton and Pizarro appear on the venue's Centre Stage to share their expertise with visitors through a series of dedicated master classes.
Returning for the second year running will be Sat Bains while other chefs appearing at the event include Daniel Clifford of Cambridge's two Michelin-starred restaurant, Midsummer House, his fellow Great British Menu 2012 finalist Philip Howard, Paul Foster of Tuddenham Mill and The Cinnamon Club's executive chef Vivek Singh.
Bringing an international flavour to the event will be Peter Gilmore of Australian restaurant Quay and Hong Kong's Alvin Leung, who will be in London for the opening of his latest restaurant BO London.
Hot topics and trends
Restaurant operators looking to find out about the latest trends and issues affecting the industry, should head to the Business Bootcamp where industry experts will give their views on key areas such as sustainability, the economy and recruiting staff for the future.
More advice in the area of drinks can be found at the Drinks Quarter where top sommeliers, including Gerard Basset and Xavier Rousset will join with respected wine writers to host sampling sessions and food and drink matching workshops.
In response to the growing trend for street food, this year, the on-site restaurant will be replaced by Eat Street, an area dedicated to celebrating the growth of street food within the restaurant sector and hosting some of the entrepreneurs in this field.
Competitions and products
The show, which runs from 8 to 10 October, will again host the final of the Craft Guild of Chef's National Chef of the Year competition where eight finalists will battle it out for their chance to win the title. Other competitions held throughout the event are the Junior and Senior Compass Chef of the Year and the newly-launched Event Caterers Team Challenge.
Visitors will also be given the chance to meet suppliers and sample and view new products at the Artisan Producers' Market.
“This much-anticipated event, allows visitors to sample and taste, explore new avenues, learn new techniques or skills, develop knowledge, network, communicate and make new connections, discover product innovations, amass solid commercial advice from those leading the way, and simply be inspired all under one roof, and in the space of just three days," said exhibitions director Rachel Quigley.
“This year’s event is set to be better than ever before with a whole range of live events and something to appeal to everyone. With thoughts of change and innovation at the centre of everyone’s radar during this downturn in the economy, the show is set to offer plenty of food for thought.”
The Restaurant Show is free to visitors who register in advance, (£25 if turning up on the day). To register for free click here.
