Stuart Collins, chef-patron of acclaimed restaurant, Docket no.33 in Whitchurch, Shropshire has won the first regional heat of hit BBC Two TV show, Great British Menu and is now through to the national final.
The renowned chef, who opened Docket no.33 in the market town of Whitchurch back in 2017, was crowned winner of the ‘central region’ heat in the first week of the much-loved show with this year’s theme of ‘British innovation’.
Chef Stuart Collins comments: “My game plan was to not be the first to leave as I really wanted to cook all of my dishes for the Veteran Judge. I’d put a lot of effort into developing them all and I would have been massively disappointed to have not served them to Lisa.”
His ‘Radcliffe Road’ dessert, which was inspired by Edgar Hooley who invented smooth tarmac, consisted of dark chocolate, hazelnut praline, nougatine and Earl Grey tea. The dessert was presented as a chocolate bar; the layering representing the layers of a road with a shining glaze. This was accompanied by earl grey tea sorbet, served in mini tin mugs as a nod to ‘builder’s brew’. The dessert was thoroughly enjoyed by guest judge Helen Sharman.
Stuart continues: “Being the Central Region Champion of Great British Menu is amazing. It has been such an exciting journey and one that I’ve taken course by course. I certainly didn’t walk into the kitchen expecting this result! It’s an absolute honour to have represented my home region, using the amazing produce that we’re surrounded by here in Shropshire.”
It’s no surprise that Stuart was invited to join the star-studded lineup with a series of top UK and international establishments to his name. His extensive experience includes working with a host of famous faces, including Gary Rhodes, Michael Caines and Gordon Ramsay before opening his own restaurant with his wife Frances in Whitchurch, Shropshire.
Docket No.33, which has featured for two consecutive years in the prestigious Michelin Guide GB & NI, offers a carefully curated Tasting Menu with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients.
Stuart and the team will be reopening Docket No.33 again on 20th May. The restaurant will open Thursday-Saturday evenings from 7pm. Booking is now live.
To book Docket no.33 or to purchase Docket at Home, please visit http://docketrestaurant.com/no-33/.
