Where dedication and close ties to the hospitality and tourism industry are hallmarks of teaching and learning, Chitkara University invited Cuisine Master Chef, Colin Westal from Le Cordon Bleu, London to take a session on Culinary Art for the students of Chitkara School of Culinary Arts. Le Cordon Bleu is a world renowned network of educational institutions dedicated to providing the highest level of culinary and hospitality education through world class programs.
Sharing a brief about Cuisine Master Chef Colin Westal: Chef Westal started his career with a 3 year apprenticeship with the Roux Brothers gaining experience in 3 of their restaurants: Le Gamin, Le Poulbot and the then 3 Michelin star Le Gavroche. Mastering the finest classical techniques early in his career he then moved to Kensington Place Restaurant under Roux Protégé Rowley Leigh where he quickly progressed up the kitchen brigade. After 8 successful years at Kensington Place, Chef Colin’s love for fish led him to go to Billingsgate market daily to find the best available fish.
He would then bring this back to the shop and cook up daily specials and also pass on advice and tips to customers. In 2008, Rowley Leigh again recruited Chef Colin as Head Chef for his new venture; Le Cafe Anglais. Here Chef Colin set up the new 160 seat restaurant which serves award winning Anglo French cuisine. After 3 years Chef Colin moved to Soif Restaurant as Head Chef where he was again challenged to open this new establishment. Chef Colin also designs menus and cooks for small private functions which includes catering a function for Mr and Mrs Rothschild. Chef Colin joined Le Cordon Bleu’s team of Teaching Chefs in 2014 in the team of Cuisine Teaching Chefs and has been imparting his exemplary cuisine techniques to the budding chefs.
Chef Colin Westal addressed the budding chefs of Chitkara School of Culinary Artsalong with industry professionals. In his session of “Culinary Art Demonstrations’, Chef Colin Westal prepared various dishes for the session attendees. He also shared and talked about the modern trends in cooking.
Sharing thoughts on the session, Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Vice Chancellor, Chitkara University said, “Chef Colin Westal holds a lot of experience and expertise in training and educating Chefs from around the world. His session has added continental flavour to the learning experience of our budding chefs. As an institute it is our continuous endeavor to bring classroom expertise and international business acumen that provides students with comprehensive theoretical knowledge and practical hands-on experience. These kinds of sessions will surely prepare students for a rewarding career in dynamic and exciting industries of hospitality, tourism and catering”.
