FAN-TANNER-TASTIC! Celebrity chefs cook up a feast at London South East Colleges’ BR6 Restaurant

Celebrity chef duo Chris and James Tanner took over BR6 Restaurant last night, cooking up a delicious three course meal for over forty guests.

Assisting them were twelve hospitality students from London South East Colleges, learning new skills from their famous mentors

The Tanner brothers run and own the award-winning Kentish Hare in Bidborough as well as making regular appearances on TV. James will also be featuring in the new Channel 4 series ‘Beat the Chef’ which airs on 27 May.

The Levels 1, 2 and 3 students worked alongside the Tanner brothers to prepare the evening’s dishes which included blowtorched mackerel, rump of lamb and a chocolate hazelnut brownie. 

As well as giving guests the opportunity to sample their delicious menu, the event raised funds for St Giles Trust and the Fisherman’s Mission.

Speaking at the event, Chris and James Tanner said: “Cooking with London South East Colleges’ students at BR6 Restaurant is always a huge pleasure. They are talented, enthusiastic and have very successful careers ahead of them within the industry.  

“As patrons of BR6, we really enjoy seeing the Restaurant develop and grow. It’s great to have such an excellent college restaurant in a town centre position, giving the local community easy access to high quality food, served in a fabulous setting.

“Well done to all the students involved tonight, both in the kitchen and front-of-house. We look forward to returning very soon.”

Student Hanna Hone, 17, from Bromley, is studying on our Catering (Culinary Skills) level 1 Certificate at the Orpington Campus and was amongst the team students chosen to assist. She said: “I’m honoured to be part of the team and I’m going to watch and learn from the professionals tonight. I aim to follow in their footsteps and become a renowned chef one day. Getting to work with two great chefs in just my first year at the College is something I didn’t really expect. I’ve learnt so much in just one year and I’m so looking forward to coming back for year 2 in September.”

Tania Sumner, Head of Hospitality at London South East Colleges, said: “We are very grateful to Chris and James for the ongoing support they offer. Our students are extremely lucky to work alongside two such talented and professional chefs, who are both inspiring and supportive.

“This evening is another huge success for BR6 Restaurant and I thank our guests for their support. BR6 holds a number of events throughout the year offering many unique dining experiences. This helps ensure that our students are exposed to a wide range of food and preparation techniques, ensuring they develop the skills needed to succeed in the industry.”

If you think you have what it takes to become a professional chef/front of house specialist and build a successful career in the hospitality and catering industries, London South East Colleges has a great range of courses to get you started.