Hampshire showcases the best of local to the next generation of top chefs

Hampshire Fare was delighted to partner with Lainston House and the Craft Guild of Chefs to showcase the very best of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight’s food and drink as part of this year’s prestigious Graduate Awards Mentor Day.

As part of the national programme, 33 finalist chefs, many of whom are destined to become the next generation of leading names in British hospitality, travelled to Hampshire to meet the producers, growers and makers behind our region’s exceptional food story. The evening brought together an outstanding selection of Hampshire Fare members, who shared their products, passion and expertise with chefs and industry leaders from across the UK.

A big thank you to Summerdown, Isle of Wight Tomatoes, New Forest Shortbread, The Whimsical Forager, Downton Distillery, B58 Winery & The New Forest Fruit Co., Candover Brook, Pothecary Gin and The Grange for helping to make the evening such a success. Their generosity, knowledge and enthusiasm gave guests a real taste of the quality, provenance and innovation that defines Hampshire and the Isle of Wight’s food and drink community.

Hosted by Mark Hill MBE, Executive Chef at the House of Commons, the producer showcase and BBQ celebrated the incredible stories behind the region’s produce and created valuable connections between local businesses and the chefs who will shape the future of British hospitality.

The event was particularly fitting as Hampshire Fare celebrates its 35th anniversary, highlighting our continued role in connecting producers with hospitality and championing the businesses that make Hampshire and the Isle of Wight such an exceptional place to eat, drink and discover local.