Meet the BCF Chef of the Year 2018 finalists: Jamie Coleman

BCF Chef of the Year 2018 finalist, Jamie Coleman is head chef at the Mason Arms in Knowstone, Devon.

He started his culinary career at Gordon Ramsey at Claridge’s as a commis chef where he 'learnt his trade'. He recalls “It was a culture shock to me, but learning about the industry and teamwork was invaluable”, he stayed at Claridge’s for two years, eventually being promoted to the role of chef de partie.

From here, he moved to Gidleigh Park (under the tutelage of Michael Caines) where he worked as a chef de partie for over a year and a half. He then undertook a similar role at the three AA Rosette Summer Lodge in Evershot in Dorset.

He undertook his first head chef role at the two AA Rosette Saunton Sands Hotel in Devon for almost three years. Here he says that “I learnt lots about running a kitchen, especially when it came to organisation and things like that.”

Jamie has previously entered the South West Chef of the Year competition in 2016 when he was awarded first place. He has also previously taken part in San Pellegrino Chef of the Year UK and Ireland in 2015 where he achieved second place. He has also previously taken part in MasterChef: The Professionals in 2015.

How do you feel about becoming a finalist?

It feels good to get through to the final. Better to get through than not isn’t it?! I was at work when I heard that I got through.

Why did you enter BCF Chef of the Year?

It’s a good competition, I have never entered it before so I thought I would enter it. I think it’s good for your name and to get your name ‘out there’.

There will be a butchery masterclass taking place on April 9th at Aubrey Allen, where the chefs will find out what cut of meat they will be using in the final.

On April 23rd, a new BCF Chef of the Year will be crowned. We take a closer look at this year’s finalists hoping to produce winning dishes in the final at University College, Birmingham which will impress the judging panel.

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