Tommy Banks Joins the Toque d'Or® Panel
Award-winning chef and restaurateur, Tommy Banks has confirmed he’ll be joining the Toque d’Or® judging panel for our 35th-anniversary edition. Sharing unrivalled experience in sustainability and farm-to-fork dining, Tommy joins our six-strong team of judges, who'll each be bringing their own unique industry-leading skills and expertise to the table.
More about Chef Tommy Banks
Three-time winner and judge on BBC2’s The Great British Menu, Tommy Banks owns two Michelin-starred restaurants, a premium food box business and a canned wine brand. A strong advocate of farm-to-fork dining, he remains inspired by his family farm on which he grew up. His inspiration and hard work have earned him a prestigious Michelin green star for his commitment to sustainable eating.
“Toque d’Or® is a unique opportunity for college students to explore different careers and learn about the latest industry trends. I’m delighted to be involved in this year’s competition, and I'm looking forward to mentoring and meeting the industry’s finest young hospitality talent.” Tommy Banks
Meet Tommy and many more at the final
Make it to the Toque d’Or® final, and have the chance to visit chef Tommy Bank’s sustainable farm. You will have the opportunity to not only learn about his farming techniques, but you'll also get the chance to forage, gather and harvest fruits and vegetables, as well as see the livestock.
In past years, Toque d'Or® has attracted a wide array of industry leaders to judge the competition, resulting in an all-star network of supporters including Anton Mosimann OBE, Julie Jones, James Martin, Jamie Oliver, James Tanner and Simon Hulstone. This year, we’re excited to offer the usual high standards, with inspiring judges offering diverse skills and experience across FOH and BOH.
- Louisa Ellis - winner of Masterchef: The Professionals title in 2020 Festive Knockout
- Raul Diaz - educator and well-respected sommelier and wine expert
- Sophie Taylor - FOH Toque d’Or® winner 2021 and Chef De Partie at Gleneagles Townhouse
- Ryan Burke, Nestlé Professional head of training for hot beverages
- Justin Clarke, Nestlé Professional development chef.
Toque d’Or® aims to educate and test students in both practical, service-based and business-focused tasks. With a focus on providing up-to-the-minute industry expertise and experience. Not only does Toque d’Or® provide valuable hands-on experiences, but it also offers the opportunity to work with and learn from leading industry experts and businesses, who judge each task.
