Nestlé Toque d'Or 2011 now open for entries

To enter, teams are required to submit a paper detailing their own ideas for a contemporary and unique dining environment in which students will need to carefully consider the demands of today's diners. In addition, teams will be tasked with creating a three course lunch menu. Judges will be marking how well the menus address key industry issues such as: nutrition, seasonality, provenance and sustainability. In addition, students are being challenged to think about the real meaning of a sustainable policy. Those who make it through the paper entry stage will then need to serve 22 lunch covers for the chance to earn their place at the grand final. Five teams will be selected and awarded a place in the finals where they will serve 100 diners at BBC Good Food Show Summer at the Birmingham NEC. Neil Stephens, managing director of Nestlé Professional, said: "To succeed in this industry takes a serious amount of passion, effort and skill. It's no longer good enough to sit on the sidelines. "A world class chef or hospitality director should take risks, challenge themselves every step of the way, and ultimately hold a solid foundation of experience that will provide them with an element of finesse in everything they do." For further information, please contact the Nestlé Toque d'Or helpline on 01327 810477 or email nestletoquedor@opuscreates.com.