Organisers of the Ilkley Food and Drink Festival have confirmed the full Live Cookery Theatre line-up for their seventh annual celebration, set to take place on the 13 and 14 June at East Holmes Field.
Delivered in partnership with Yorkshire Food Guide, the festival will spotlight some of the region's most exciting culinary talent, with nine different experts from leading restaurants and businesses throughout Yorkshire, all offering live demonstrations.
The demos will let festival-goers explore an eclectic mix of dishes and cuisines, guided by independent business owners, acclaimed head chefs, and Michelin Guide-recognised specialists.
The line-up is:
Saturday 13th June
12:00 Tim Kitchen - The Penny Bun, Ilkley
Estate Head Chef at The Penny Bun in Ilkley, Tim crafts his menus with an ethos for sustainable, Yorkshire-grown produce. Rooted in the French concept of ‘Terroir’, he uses locally-foraged ingredients to champion seasonal, simple and sustainable dishes.
13:00 Chris Hobson - Wrea Head Hall, Scarborough
Senior Sous Chef Chris Hobson recently joined the acclaimed team at Wrea Head Hall, an award-winning country house hotel known for its fresh Yorkshire produce and local partnerships. With over 20 years of culinary experience, Chris plays a pivotal role in shaping the venue’s seasonal menus.
14:00 Adam Maddock - Saltmoore, Whitby
Adam Maddock is the Executive Chef of Saltmoore, a luxurious hotel on the North Yorkshire coast. Having been recently recognised in The MICHELIN Guide, Adam is a celebrated seafood specialist who highlights the very best in British ingredients.
15:00 Sandy Docherty - The Great British Bake Off
Great British Bake Off Contestant, published author and community volunteer, Sandy Docherty is passionate for how individuals can form connections, spread joy, and share their stories through baking. Sandy continues to support various organisations across Yorkshire, such as Heroes, The Bronte Society, Howarth Fair trade, NHS Hospitals and Candlelighters Hospice.
16:00 Richard Allan - NEET People
Chef Consultant for NEET, Northcliffe Environmental Enterprises Team, Richard Allan brings over 30 years of culinary experience to the table. NEET is a registered charity dedicated to providing a supportive network that helps those with learning disabilities live inclusive and fulfilling lives.
Saturday 14th June
11:00 Varun Khanna - Rhubarb, Harrogate
Head Chef Varun Khanna is responsible for the intricate, creative menus at Rhubarb, one of Harrogate’s most exciting dining experiences. Varun combines classical techniques with a contemporary approach to seasonal British produce, delivering a distinctive experience for his guests.
12:00 Owen Diaram - Cook with Owen, Harrogate
Harrogate local, independent business owner and MasterChef UK Quarter-Finalist, Owen Diaram is a passionate private chef who brings flavour, intricate spices and creativity to unforgettable private dining experiences across the UK.
13:00 Minal Patel - Prashad, Drighlington
Head Chef at the award-winning Indian restaurant Prashad, Minal Patel has led the team for over 20 years. Under her leadership, the restaurant has received the MICHELIN Guide's Bib Gourmand for 13 consecutive years, alongside two AA Rosettes in that time. Trained under Michelin-starred chefs such as Gordon Ramsay and Atul Kochhar, Minal blends traditional Gujarati and family recipes with a creative flair for all things fine-dining.
14:00 Sandy Docherty - Great British Bake Off
Sandy returns for her second demonstration of the weekend, treating festival-goers to another masterclass in story-telling through food.
15:00 Shane Zhao - Wood Hall Hotel & Spa, Wetherby
Head Chef of Wood Hall Hotel and a North East representative on season 21 of The Great British Menu, Shane Zhao brings over 18 years of experience to the kitchen. Having achieved two Michelin Plates, she is the creative force behind Wood Hall’s vibrant, flavour-packed dining experiences.
Early Bird Tickets are still available, priced at £6.95 for Adults, £4.95 for Under 16’s, and Free for Under 5’s.
For more information, Early Bird Tickets, and updates, visit https://ilkleyfoodfestival.com/
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