Hilton Manchester Deansgate wins Britain’s Best Brigade 2016 in closest ever vote

The brigade at the high-rise Hilton Manchester Deansgate Hotel, triumphed by a handful of public votes edging out seven other UK regions to be crowned Britain’s Best Brigade for 2016 in Essential Cuisine’s nationwide search for the best of the best.

Representing North West and Northern Ireland, the team’s video effort was declared the overall winner by a panel of judges which sees the team scoop the title of Britain’s best plus £1000 and an exclusive menu development masterclass with a leading UK chef.

Executive Chef, Stuart Duff, said of the win: “We’re extremely proud to have won the award for Britain’s Best Brigade. We are all so passionate about what we do, so I’m thrilled the team have got the recognition they thoroughly deserve.

“We’re lucky to have a team full of different characters and skill levels who blend to deliver fantastic results and creativity, paired with the support from our General Manager, John McLaughlin. Our emphasis is always on learning and development for the chefs - supplier visits and in-house masterclasses are essential to motivate young talent and inspire new dishes. Keeping enthusiasm and energy up in a very busy and demanding environment helps to exceed our customer’s expectations at Hilton Manchester Deansgate.”

After an initial paper judging stage, each team was tasked with creating a short video to encapsulate the sense of camaraderie, teamwork and cooking prowess within the kitchen walls. United by a frequent diet of masterclasses, day trips to suppliers, food shows and 6am harbour side starts, the hardworking Hilton Manchester Deansgate team put food at the forefront of their video – showcasing dishes from the sumptuous menu, cut with imagery taken from their many educational tours. 

Nigel Crane, Managing Director for Essential Cuisine, sayid: “Congratulations to the Hilton Manchester Deansgate Brigade – a canny mix of youth, skill, passion and expertise, capably guided by Chef Stuart. It’s obvious, both from their initial entry and subsequent winning video that education is something they hold in extremely high regard. They are a shining example to other teams and more than worthy winners.”

This year the company is celebrating 21 years in business.

>>> You can watch all of the finalists videos here