Hospitality Exchange guest chef José wouldn’t rule out NI venue

Hospitality Exchange guest chef José wouldn’t rule out NI venue

With just two months to go until Hospitality Exchange 2022 there are countless reasons for those in the tourism and hospitality industry to be excited about what’s on the agenda, not least the appearance of Spanish guest chef José Pizarro.

José, who was born in the beautiful village of Talaván in Cáceres, Extremadura, has lived in London for over 20 years, and is often described as the Godfather of Spanish cooking in the UK.

Having worked at some of London’s top Spanish restaurants including Eyre Brothers, Brindisa and Gaudi, he opened his first solo venture in 2011 and now boasts six venues in the greater London area.

José, who will discuss his passion for his native cuisine, simple recipes and seasonal flavours, told LCN that plans are already afoot to expand his hospitality empire and he wouldn’t rule out Northern Ireland as a future location.

“Why not? It may be a bit far for me but we have a good a team so nothing is out of the question with regards what the future might bring,” said José.

When he cooks for invited guests in Belfast the TV favourite told LCN that those lucky enough to be in attendance can expect “big Spanish flavours”.

“I want to bring the creativity that myself and my chefs bring to all our restaurants. Nothing fancy just mazing food and amazing products and I know the team in Belfast will help me deliver an amazing menu,” he explained.

“It is all about the things that I have brought here for many years to this country and it is representing my cooking, my country and my whole team.”

Stephen Meldrum, President of the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation, said: “The countdown is now officially on for Hospitality Exchange 2022, which takes place in the Crowne Plaza Belfast on the 11th and 12th October 2022.

“The line-up is one of our most impressive yet and we are delighted that guest chef, José Pizarro, will be in Belfast to share some trade secrets with aspiring chefs.

“The programme will focus on key industry issues, looking towards the future while focusing on food, people, performance and the economic importance of the sector.”

Whether you own, manage or work in a hotel, B&B, pub, restaurant, museum, airline or coffee shop, if you’re interested in developing and want to tap into innovation to drive business, then Hospitality Exchange is where you need to be. For further information, log on to hospitalityexchange.org.uk.

: Read more about José’s amazing journey and his food philosophy in the upcoming edition of LCN.