At Cheshire Cat Pubs, our commitment to sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, and this year’s Big Green Plate-Off Challenge was no exception. This exciting event brought together our pub teams, from food champions to chefs, as we worked to create delicious dishes that align with our ethos of “Fresh, Seasonal, Local.” The challenge not only showcased culinary creativity but also strengthened our ties with local suppliers, and helped foster teamwork across our pubs.
A special shoutout goes to our incredible vegetable supplier, Oliver Perry’s of Holmes Chapel, who made this challenge possible. Working closely with their local farmers, Graham and Roy, we were able to incorporate the freshest produce into our dishes. From root vegetables and brassicas grown at Graham’s farm to the vibrant tomatoes, lettuce, and cucumbers from Roy’s fields, every ingredient used reflected the very best of our local harvest.
Our chefs and food champions took their learning from the Local Grower’s Day to heart, bringing their newfound knowledge back to the kitchen to craft dishes that emphasised sustainability. It’s been incredible to see their enthusiasm and creativity grow, as they experimented with eco-friendly cooking techniques and seasonal ingredients. Front and back of house teams worked together to bring the dishes to life and educate our guests on the importance of locally sourced, sustainable produce. The energy and pride from each pub were palpable, and the competition not only sparked a healthy rivalry but also motivated the teams to learn, grow, and share their newfound skills.
It’s clear that this initiative has laid the groundwork for even more sustainable practices moving forward. Thank you to everyone who took part and to Oliver Perry’s for providing such incredible produce, which allowed us to showcase the very best of Cheshire in our kitchens. Here’s to many more collaborations as we continue to strengthen our “Fresh, Seasonal, Local” approach!