Meet the National Chef of the Year 2018 finalists: Kuba Winkowski
National Chef of the Year 2018 finalist, Kuba Winkowski is head chef at The Feathered Nest Inn.
Originally setting his sights on the financial world, Kuba realised his passion for gastronomy after working as a kitchen porter for two summers in Sydney. From here, Kuba spent three years at Broadstairs learning the trade. During this time Kuba took part in various cooking competitions, both in the UK and France, and completed stages Le Gavroche, Rhodes 24, Buckingham Palace and The British Embassy in Paris. His first full time job was as a commis chef at Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saison under Raymond Blanc and Gary Jones. Kuba joined The Feathered Nest as sous chef in 2010 before being made head chef in 2012. Under Kuba’s guidance the restaurant has been awarded 3 rosettes in the AA Restaurant Guide.
How did it feel to get through to the final?
I felt very happy and relieved when my name was read out as a finalist for NCOTY. I felt like I had a good day and everything went to plan so I was even more hopeful and hungry to reach the top 10.
Why did you enter national chef of the year?
I entered the NCOTY competition to test myself against the other chefs, to see where I stand amongst them. I also wanted to have the opportunity to meet all of the judges, to be able to cook for them and to see what they think about it. It is a great opportunity for networking with the best in the industry.
On Tuesday, October 3 a new National Chef of the Year will be crowned. We take a closer look at this year's finalists hoping to produce winning dishes at the final at The Restaurant Show, which will impress the judging panel.
{{user.name}}