Liam Balmer, a 26-year-old sous chef currently working at Elmbrook Court care home on Grove Road in Wantage, has been honoured with the Annual Award of Excellence from the esteemed Royal Academy of Culinary Arts. Renowned as the most prestigious accolade for young talents in the hospitality industry, this award acknowledges the aspirations and achievements of burgeoning chefs.
Caption: The quail dish made by Liam for the assessment. (Image: Oakland Care)
The achievement of Mr. Balmer is particularly commendable, given that he was the only finalist from the care sector. Speaking about his motivation to participate, he said: “I entered the awards to see what I could achieve, but also to show that the standard of food we produce at Elmbrook Court is high, and the level of detail is exceptional.”
In the finals, Mr. Balmer was tasked with crafting a three-course menu within a stringent five hours, utilizing an undisclosed array of vegetables. His menu included crab pasta, stuffed quail, and cherry clafoutis, all of which were carefully evaluated by the distinguished judges.
Liam’s Accomplishments Praised by Elmbrook Court’s Manager
Rebecca Warman, the registered manager at Elmbrook Court, applauded his triumph. She said, “This award is very well deserved. Liam demonstrates that care home cuisine can be both award-winning and accessible to all, creating meals that are not only delicious but also beautifully presented, regardless of dietary restrictions. His flair, pride, and meticulous attention to detail have made our dining room a place where residents eagerly anticipate every meal.”
Mr. Balmer has left an indelible mark at the care home with his ability to prepare meals that cater to a range of dietary needs, including pureed options for those with swallowing difficulties. He firmly believes in the principle that meals served to residents should not lack in quality: “Everyone deserves to be able to eat with dignity.”
Praise from Residents
Jenny Tyack, a resident at Elmbrook Court for the past three years, expressed her appreciation, saying the meals prepared by Mr. Balmer are exceptional. “We are very proud of Liam. The food here is so good that I have started to put weight on!” she exclaimed.
Mr. Balmer’s momentous victory will be celebrated on July 29, where he will be awarded at a dinner ceremony taking place at Claridge’s in London. He also stands a chance to secure the coveted ‘Young Chef of the Year’ title at this event.
Group Executive Commends Liam
Giles Conroy, group executive chef for Oakland Care, the parent company of the care home, praised Mr. Balmer’s culinary accomplishments and ambition. “Liam’s culinary skills and appetite to achieve are truly admirable. Recognition in such a prestigious competition is truly well deserved and demonstrates the superior level of repertoire and capability of chefs we have within Oakland Care,” he said.
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