Veni, vidi, vici! Student Chef Alfie Reed brings home the gold at Venice cooking contest
A young College chef is celebrating yet another victory in a cooking competition after beating out eight other contestants to take first place at the Combiguru Oven Challenge in Italy.
21-year-old Alfie Reed, who’s studying City & Guilds Level 2 in Professional Cookery & Hospitality at Milton Road, added another feather to his cap following his recent win at the Italian Salumi contest, which saw him qualify for a grand-final in London.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Venice’s famous canals, Alfie whipped up two dishes that were described by judges as “inspired, well-executed and delicious”, while praise was heaped on the confident cook for trying “bold flavours”.
Thanks to Alfie’s win, the College will now receive a brand-new UNOX oven from Combiguru, which will be available for all Professional Cookery & Hospitality students to make the most of.
Keri Dewar, one of Alfie’s cookery lecturers who oversaw the trip to Italy, says his success is well-deserved:
“Alfie is really on a roll! He deserves a huge congratulations for all his hard-work and commitment, and everyone is rooting for him at next month’s Salumi final down in London.”
Stephanie Tanner, Head of Department for Culinary Arts, Leisure and Tourism, says Alfie is an example for everyone at the College:
“Everyone at Edinburgh College is absolutely delighted by Alfie’s continued success. His enthusiasm for cooking and dedication to improving his skills is inspiring, and we have no doubts he will go on to great things in his future career in the kitchen.”