Open Kitchen Week, an initiative from Chef Network, will be returning nationwide from 11 to 17 November, and registration is now open for host kitchens.
Kitchens already signed up for 2024 include Michelin-starred Aniar, Rare at Blue Haven, the Osprey Hotel, the Clayton Hotel Galway, Praline Pastry and Chocolate Shop, Gather & Gather at Airbnb, Allo’s Bar Bistro Townhouse, the Guinness Storehouse and Killeavy Castle Estate.
‘Attracting New Talent’
“We want to showcase all sectors and all kinds of kitchen roles, ideally in kitchens in every county across the island,” said Ruth Hegarty, food policy consultant and Chef Network spokesperson.
“By getting involved, kitchens can contribute to the future of the industry by showcasing career opportunities and attracting new talent. They might even spot the next star of their kitchen team!”
Chef Experience
Launched in 2023, the inaugural event saw over 50 of Ireland’s professional kitchens invite 300 members of the public to experience what it’s like to work in a real, professional kitchen.
Hosts last year included high-profile names like Bread 41 in Dublin, Elbow Lane in Cork, the Blue Haven in Kinsale, House of Plates in Castlebar, Michelin-starred Aniar in Galway, 2 Taps Wine Bar in Belfast, Lough Erne Resort in Enniskillen, and Clayton Hotels – to name but a few.
‘Expanding’
“We piloted this idea in 2023, and before we knew it, 50 kitchens were onboard – more than we ever envisaged. The industry embraced the idea wholeheartedly,” said Hegarty.
“Chefs brought the guests in, introduced them to the team and their roles, took them through a day in the life of their kitchen, assigned them some basic tasks, and gave them a chance to absorb the environment.
“Now we are expanding Open Kitchen and asking more kitchens to get involved.”
Kitchen Life
Open Kitchen is supported by industry partners including the Dalata Hotel Group, Gather & Gather and Henderson Foodservice.
Host kitchens can commit to anything from a two-hour visit to a full day, giving participants the opportunity to experience various aspects of kitchen life, from ‘prep’ time to a full service.
Find out more at www.chefnetwork.ie.
