TSC Award 2024 Sustainable Business of the year is Tom Heywood and Pignut

Tom Heywood, a native of Church Fenton, North Yorkshire, has established himself as a prominent figure in the British culinary scene through his dedication to sustainability and innovative cuisine. His journey began in esteemed Michelin-starred kitchens, including Midsummer House, The Ledbury, The Cottage in the Wood, and Dan Barber’s Blue Hill in New York. These experiences honed his skills and deepened his commitment to sustainable practices.

In 2019, Tom took on the role of head chef at The Rattle Owl in York, where he implemented his sustainability ethos. Under his leadership, the restaurant earned two AA Rosettes, a recommendation in the Michelin Guide, and was named Restaurant of the Year in the 2020 White Rose Awards.

In June 2023, Tom, alongside his partner and sommelier, Laurissa Cook, opened Pignut in Helmsley, North Yorkshire. The restaurant, named after a foraged nut native to the area, embodies their shared vision of reimagining fine dining with a focus on sustainability and innovation. Pignut offers an intimate setting with an open kitchen, allowing guests to observe the culinary process and engage with the chefs.

Sponsored by

TSC Awards Sustainabilble Business Compass UK and Ireland

In these challenging times…

The Staff Canteen team are taking a different approach to keeping our website independent and delivering content free from commercial influence. Our Editorial team have a critical role to play in informing and supporting our audience in a balanced way. We would never put up a paywall – The Staff Canteen is open to all and we want to keep bringing you the content you want; more from younger chefs, more on mental health, more tips and industry knowledge, more recipes and more videos. We need your support right now, more than ever, to keep The Staff Canteen active. Without your financial contributions this would not be possible.

Over the last 16 years, The Staff Canteen has built what has become the go-to platform for chefs and hospitality professionals. As members and visitors, your daily support has made The Staff Canteen what it is today. Our features and videos from the world’s biggest name chefs are something we are proud of. We have over 560,000 followers across Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube and other social channels, each connecting with chefs across the world. Our editorial and social media team are creating and delivering engaging content every day, to support you and the whole sector - we want to do more for you.

A single coffee is more than £2, a beer is £4.50 and a large glass of wine can be £6 or more.

Support The Staff Canteen from as little as £1 today. Thank you.