A talented chef who drew inspiration from Scotland’s stunning landscapes has been crowned as Scotland’s Chef of the Year. David Millar, the Executive Chef at Carlowrie Castle near Edinburgh, clinched the prestigious title after emerging victorious at the Scottish Culinary Championships held in Glasgow recently.
Millar, a seasoned contestant from the Great British Menu, emerged as the winner following a tough competition that put Scotland’s top chefs to the test, evaluating their creativity and technical prowess during a rigorous three-hour cook-off. His award-winning menu, named Anam na Tirè, which means “the soul of the land” in Gaelic, wowed the judges with its profound connection to nature and sustainability.
The championship’s organizers praised Millar’s culinary skills, stating, “His love for the land shone through in all four dishes, showcasing a strong theme centered around the cycle of life and total sustainability. His main course, featuring sustainably sourced venison from Ronay Island with a potato scone, celeriac, and bramble sauce, truly stood out.”
During the competition, Millar expressed his joy at winning the coveted title, emphasizing the years of hard work, meticulous planning, and countless hours of practice that went into his success. He reflected on the honor of having the judges sample his dishes and the validation it brought to his dedication and passion for cooking.
Expert Judging Panel and Prestigious Win
The Scottish Culinary Championships featured a panel of esteemed judges, including previous award winners and Michelin-starred chefs such as Lorna Macnee, Kevin Macgullivery, Orry Shand, Ross Sneddon, and Stevie MacLaughlin. Millar’s triumph at the competition elevates him to an elite group of top chefs who have left a lasting impact on Scotland’s culinary landscape.
Millar, known for his appearance on the Great British Menu’s 20th-anniversary edition, showcased his culinary prowess and leadership skills during the intense cooking challenges. His impressive performance on the show garnered praise from judges and viewers alike, solidifying his reputation as a culinary talent to watch.
Leading Culinary Innovation at Carlowrie Castle
As the Executive Chef at Carlowrie Castle, a premier wedding venue in Kirkliston, Millar spearheads the culinary experiences for luxury weddings, corporate events, and private stays. Carlowrie Castle, recognized as the world’s first and only B Corp certified castle, upholds exceptional standards of social and environmental responsibility, emphasizing the use of seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, many of which are grown on-site.
Keith Taylor, Carlowrie Castle’s Operations Director, commended Millar’s creativity and commitment to sustainable dining practices, noting his profound impact on the hospitality industry in Scotland. Taylor praised Millar’s leadership, expertise, and ability to inspire the kitchen team to strive for excellence, culminating in a well-deserved recognition as Scotland’s Chef of the Year.
In conclusion, David Millar’s culinary journey from crafting innovative menus inspired by Scotland’s natural beauty to winning the prestigious title of Scottish Chef of the Year showcases his unwavering dedication to his craft and commitment to sustainability. As he continues to push the boundaries of culinary excellence at Carlowrie Castle, Millar’s influence on the Scottish food scene remains undeniable, setting a high standard for aspiring chefs in the industry.
