Congratulations to the first Andrew Fairlie Scholarship Winners!

The two chefs who impressed the judges the most are Emma-Rose Milligan, 23, from Kilmarnock, who is working as Demi Chef de Partie at Chez Roux at Inverlochy Castle in Fort William, and Joseph Harte, 23, a Junior Sous Chef at Douneside House in Aboyne, Aberdeenshire.

The finalists had to prove their worth in a two-part skills test, where they first had to recreate a classic Andrew Fairlie dish before preparing a dish that showcased their individuality and creativity as a chef. This took place on October 24th at Gleneagles.

Spearheaded by HIT Scotland and supported by the First Minister, Scottish Government and Gleneagles, the scholarship was launched in February 2019 in recognition of Andrew Fairlie’s significant and lasting contribution to the hospitality industry.

The judges included Stephen McLaughlin, Head Chef at Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, Gary Maclean, Scotland’s National Chef, and Michelin-starred chefs Tom Kerridge and Sat Bains.

Stephen McLaughlin, who was lead judge, said: "We were thoroughly impressed by the standard shown by the finalists, they all showcased passion and talent that Andrew would be proud of. Emma-Rose and Joseph excelled in the skills tests and they have conducted themselves in a manner that truly represents the man himself.  We are pleased to have them to help continue Andrew’s legacy and we are hugely excited to see how their careers blossom from here.”

David Cochrane, HIT Scotland Chief Executive, added: “It was fantastic to see such a talented group of young chefs in action at the finals, and the creativity and dedication on display by these young chefs was truly inspiring. Congratulations to Emma-Rose and Joseph, who will now get to experience some fantastic opportunities and represent Andrew’s legacy wherever they go.”

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “I offer my warmest congratulations to Joseph and Emma-Rose for securing these prestigious scholarships.

“The fact that so many young chefs competed for these opportunities is testament to the large pool of talent in Scotland and shows a desire to follow in the footsteps of Andrew Fairlie, who did so much to bring on the next generation of world-class chefs in Scotland.” 

Conor O’Leary, Joint Managing Director of Gleneagles, said: “This was a competition of enormous importance. It ensures the culture of excellence that Andrew established is promoted and nurtured in the next generation of chefs, and it cements Scotland’s reputation as a hotbed of outstanding culinary talent. We’re thrilled for the winning recipients and look forward to following and supporting them as they progress in their careers.”

The winners will gain industry-wide recognition as Andrew Fairlie Scholars and experience once-in-a-lifetime opportunities such as a practical stage in an international kitchen, placements at the Culinary Institute of America and at Restaurant Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles, and the chance to cook at Bute House, the official residence of the First Minister.