Students aim to make

Hotelympia 2000 turns its attention to the chefs and waiters of the future when it hosts the student competition, Nestlé Toque d'Or.

The event, which changed format last year to put as much emphasis on operational skills as on the menu, will see 32 final-year student teams of three taking part in two daily competitions on the Nestlé stand.

The teams have to create a Place to Eat, involving devising a menu and serving eight guests plus one judge per day with a one-bowl meal and dessert in just two-and-a-half hours. A hot beverage using one of the Nescafé range of coffees must also be offered, along with detailed costings and an overall design theme for the eaterie.

The four top-scoring teams will go through to the grand final to be held in the spring when the winning team will receive £5,000-worth of catering equipment for their college and £250 for each competing student.

During the build-up to the competition, students will be supported and advised by a nominated mentor chosen from food service companies Aramark, Compass, Gardner Merchant and Sutcliffe Catering.

Tables at Toque d'Or can be pre-booked by calling 020 8305 5022. For general information on Hotelympia 2000, call the ticket hotline on 024 7642 6520, or visit the Web site www.hotelympia.com.