We had an exciting day at the first direct arena in Leeds yesterday as we gathered to support one of our own rising stars: Joseph Busuttil, Chef de Partie at The Carpenters Arms in Felixkirk, and finalist in this year’s prestigious Delifresh Young Chef of the Year competition.
Joseph’s journey with us began several years ago when he joined the Carpenters Arms team as a kitchen assistant while still studying at college. From the very beginning, his talent, enthusiasm and commitment to learning were impossible to miss. Step by step, he gained experience, honed his craft and embraced every opportunity to push himself further – traits that have now propelled him onto one of the biggest culinary stages for young chefs in the region.
The Delifresh Young Chef of the Year competition attracts hundreds of talented young chefs from across the North, each bringing skill, creativity and passion to the table. To see Joseph rise through the heats and secure a place in the top eight finalists is an incredible achievement and a testament to both his hard work and his natural flair in the kitchen.
Yesterday’s final was a celebration of emerging talent, innovation and the spirit of the hospitality industry. Watching Joseph compete with confidence and composure in such a high-pressure environment filled our whole team with pride. Moments like these remind us why nurturing young talent is at the heart of what we do.
We are exceptionally proud of Joseph — not just for reaching the final, but for the journey he’s taken to get here. His progression from kitchen assistant to Chef de Partie, and now to award finalist, is an inspiration to the whole team and a fantastic example of what dedication and passion can achieve.
