The 2025 Nestlé Professional Toque d’Or finalists participated in a unique culinary challenge at London’s St Bartholomew’s Hospital, where they learned about the importance of hospital catering and community support. The challenge was part of the Toque d’Or Grand Finals week, which focused on sustainability and the role of hospitality in supporting local communities. The 12 finalists, consisting of six back-of-house (BOH) and six front-of-house (FOH) competitors, were tasked with planning, preparing, and serving a grab-and-go style lunch to over 100 frontline staff at the hospital café.
Before commencing the challenge, the finalists gained insight into the hospital’s catering provision, including its partnership with contract caterer Elior UK, which provides nutritionally-considered meals to 1.5 million patients and 21,000 staff members annually. Mel Crawford, associate director of patient catering and food services at Barts Health Trust, led a talk that highlighted the vital role food and drink play in ensuring patient and staff nutrition, hydration, and wellbeing.
The BOH finalists created a nourishing soup, while the FOH competitors paired the food with a beverage of their choice. The finalists then worked together to set up the café and provide a warm welcome to the hospital staff, who were treated to a well-deserved break and a chance to re-energize during their busy shifts. The challenge was judged by a panel of industry experts, including Paul Hawkins, Nestlé Professional development chef, and Tim Radcliffe, net zero food programme manager at the NHS.
The experience provided the finalists with a unique opportunity to learn about the breadth of roles available in NHS catering and the many rewarding career pathways on offer. Mel Crawford praised the finalists, saying, “The NHS depends on talented and dedicated foodservice professionals who want to make a real difference to people’s lives every day.” Louise Bawden, senior partnerships and events planning lead at Nestlé Professional, added that the challenge embodied community spirit, which is at the heart of this year’s Toque d’Or. The finalists showcased tremendous skills and creativity under pressure, while also giving back to the people who do so much for the community every day.