Top Chef Sails Away With Norfolkline

John Cassin from Liverpool beats stiff competition to take the crown of Norfolkline Chef of the Year.

Norfolkline’s top chefs pushed the boat out preparing a winning feast when competing for the title of Norfolkline ‘Chef of the year’ competition, held at Westminster Catering College, London. The competition was tough with five superb chefs from Norfolkline onboard kitchens being put through their paces. The chef honoured with the title ‘Chef of the Year’ was Norfolkline Irish Sea chef, John Cassin from Liverpool. John was bestowed with the coveted title of ‘Norfolkline Chef of the Year’ following a heated cook off.

The ten finalists from Norfolkline ferries, one of Europe’s leading ferry operators, put their culinary skills to the test by devising and cooking a recipe which would win them the crown. The winning menu of tea smoked salmon, lamb in Parma ham and a tart tatain created by John tickled the taste buds of the judging panel. The cooking was extremely important to that of the chef’s ability, also taken into account was the degree of organisation, sanitation and timing.

Commenting on his win, John said “All of the chefs put in a huge amount of effort on the day. I am so proud that the judges chose my dishes as the winning menu. Working in the kitchens on the ferries can be challenging at times but with a great team, great menu and great customers it’s a joy to be a part of the Norfolkline team. Over the past few years I gained an interest through the food network and other cooking. I then discovered everything took off from there. I started cooking at the beginning of my junior year in high school. I started cooking because I found it to be interesting and hands-on; now I love it’.

Competition was of a high standard as finalists were given three hours to produce a three course meal while being judged by a panel of five. Criteria for judging included menu design, technical skills, time management, food taste and presentation. Nicola Barlow General Manager Ship Board Services at Norfolkline commented; “After the success of last year we felt it was a good idea to once again celebrate the chefs that work on the channel and Irish Sea routes. The standards are very high and I would like to congratulate John and all the participants. The catering we provide onboard our ferries are a part of the experience in sailing with us, and we pride ourselves on a tasty menu using locally sourced produce.”