Over the last few months we’ve been working closely with The Prince’s Trust and their Tomorrow Campaign to find Zizzi’s next Fresh Talent chef. Out of thousands of entries, four young chefs were shortlisted and invited to London to take part in the Great Zizzi Cook-Off. The winner will create a three course menu featured in every Zizzi across the UK, with a percentage of the profits going back to the Prince’s Trust to help develop the careers of other young people.

They’re also competing for the opportunity of a lifetime – being mentored by chef and food writer, Gizzi Erskine.

Gizzi is widely known as the host of Cook Yourself Thin, author of Kitchen Magic and as a leader in the pop-up restaurant and supper club scene. She’s agreed to help us provide this unique opportunity and we can’t think of anybody else we’d rather have on board.

Gizzi had already established herself as a professional body piercer in Camden when she realised she had bigger dreams. At 23 years-old, she handed in her notice at the Cold Steel, and began training at the prestigious Leith’s School of Food and Wine. She graduated the top of her year and later won a placement at BBC Good Food magazine, where she became a credited food writer and stylist.

Our four finalists – Joe, Jenny, Louise and Daniella demonstrated a real talent for cooking but, most importantly, they showed us the enthusiasm and flair we’ve been searching for. Several weeks ago we set them the challenge of recreating Gizzi’s signature risotto, but with an added personal twist.  After 7 intense hours in our very own Hell’s Kitchen, the judges emerged and crowned Joe triumphant.

Joe is currently working towards creating a seasonal three course menu for all our restaurants; but don’t worry, we haven’t just thrown him in the deep end, sink or swim style. Throughout the whole process, Gizzi will be his mentor and together they’ll cook up our next featured menu. Our Executive Chef, Angelo, and our Gelato Queen, Kitty Travers, will also be on stand-by to lend a helping hand whenever needed.

Joe and Gizzi’s three course menu is set to make its debut in a couple of months so watch this space – we’ll be shouting it from the rooftops as soon as it arrives!