FIRST... CATCH YOUR CHEF

IN my WMN column today I wrote about the importance (or otherwise) of social media. And I can tell you one way in which it’s is proving absolutely vital...

It is in the world of professional catering where – if Twitter is anything to go by – there seems to be a massive scarcity of professional chefs at present. If I had a fiver for every tweet I’ve seen, where a pub or a restaurant has been crying out for some kind of cook or chef, I’d be able to afford to dine out every night. I know of several well known or iconic eateries desperately looking to hire.

One of these is at an exciting new £multi-million arts development at Watchet Harbour, called the East Quay. It’s being developed and run by a local Community Interest Company, and director Naomi Griffiths told me: “We have an exciting, hands-on role in a deeply community-focused, collaborative, non-traditional organisation. It’s an opportunity to be part of shaping our new restaurant, helping to create the menu, support and develop the team, and grow a reputation as a compelling new food offering in the region.

“We are open to ideas and excited to hear from talented individuals with ideas, determination and enthusiasm – but we are having difficulty in finding the right person.

“The focus of the restaurant will be modern Middle Eastern and Mediterranean-style food, with a significant proportion of vegetarian and vegan dishes. We care deeply about sustainability and locally sourced ingredients. Our vision is a small restaurant bringing high quality food and friendly service, enhancing the wider offer at East Quay.”

The new centre will be opening in July with a contemporary art gallery, creative education space, studios and workshops, holiday accommodation pods and outdoor courtyard.

If you are a chef interested in making a name at the East Quay, then contact Namoi at: naomi@ onioncollective.co.uk