Student chefs explore
Hampshire’s finest fare
T
‘‘
wo years ago the talented
Andy Mackenzie stepped
down from the position of
head chef at Lainston House to
turn his attention to the chefs of
the future.
Andy was an obvious choice
for the Exclusive Group which
owns Lainston House, Penny
Hill Park, South Lodge and The
Manor House. Andy comes with
experience, kitchen wisdom and
plenty of flair, but it is his calm
and nurturing manner that made
him the man for the job. After two
years of leading his first cohort
through their paces it is clear he
has formed bonds that will last. He
cares and this means they care.
The course is a practical one,
with the student chefs visiting
producers from across the county
and working alongside chefs
in the Exclusive Group. A keen
One cannot
think well, love
well, sleep well,
if one has not
dined well.
Virginia Woolf,
A Room of One’s Own
www.resident�agazine.co.uk
EAT DRINK & MERRY TWO PAGES Resident Aug Sept.indd 19
advocate of local produce, Andy
has introduced the aspiring chefs
to farmers, butchers, cheese
makers on a quest to turn them
into passionate and well-informed
cooks.
Andy explains: “Hampshire is
full of quality local ingredients. It
is essential that chefs understand
the process and hard work behind
their ingredients. The student chefs
really enjoy going out to different
parts of the county and hearing
from people involved in the food
chain.”
This summer Andy will wave
goodbye to the first nine chefs
whom he welcomed onto the
course two years ago: “I suppose
they were the guinea pigs in many
ways. Our first intake to embark on
a course built on ideas and passion.
“Well, I am pleased that I can
confidently say our vision has
‘‘
ra
Eat, drink and be merry
Resident 19
15/07/2016 11:34