Live wheel thrown demonstrations all day, alongside pots and sculptures for sale
Crafting high-quality, handmade ceramic pots and vessels that blend artistry with everyday living. Driven by a passion for craftsmanship and creativity, each piece is thoughtfully designed and meticulously handcrafted to bring a touch of uniqueness and beauty into your home. Discover pottery that’s as functional as it is artful.
Join Mike, Head Chef at the award winning Gastropub the Drovers Arms (Skipwith) as he takes to the demo stage!
A unique opportunity to see behind the scenes at the Festival. The first afternoon of the Festival also serves as a final rehearsal for the Festival staff and volunteers, making pasta, pizza, breads, cheese, butter , curing and smoking fish etc. Come and join us as we deliver the last round of training to the Festival staff at St Crux, we would appreciate a live audience as Festival Director Michael Hjort seeks to address some of the more complex potential questions about cheese making and sourdough while Georgie Rhodes (engagement manager) deals with the management of school groups and children of all ages.
We will also offer an introduction to our family events at St Crux and ask for audience participation!
Masterchef contestant Nick brings his love of South American food to our demonstration theatre for the first time!
Owner and Head Chef at Corner House Grill
Join Radek for a demonstration of what Corner House Grill has to offer! With a total of 13 years’ experience in the industry, from outside catering to a 2 AA Rosettes restaurant there’s sure to be a wealth of knowledge shared!
Great British Bake Off star Freya returns to the Food Festival Stage!
Freya took Bake off by storm in 2021, pushing her vegan creations to the fore. We can’t wait to welcome her to our demonstration stage
This promises to be a fantastic evening showcasing heritage recipes, live cooking demonstrations, and the opportunity to enjoy a variety of tastings. It will also be a wonderful chance to connect with others and celebrate our community’s rich cultural heritage.
Celebrate cultural diversity, food, and community right in the heart of York!
Featuring dishes from Iranian, Tunisian, African, and Jewish cuisine join chefs as they share the stories and spices behind heritage dishes, with a carefully curated menu.
Executive chef at The Minister Refectory and The Star Inn the City
Minal Patel is the Head Chef of award-winning Indian restaurant Prashad, where she’s led the team for over 20 years, blending traditional Gujarati recipes with a flair for all things fine-dining.
You might recognise Minal from this year’s Great British Menu, having previously featured on shows with the Hairy Bikers, Tom Kerridge and Gordon Ramsay.
Prashad has been awarded a prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand and two AA Rosettes.
For more of Minal’s kitchen secrets, tips and recipes, follow @Prashad_Veggie on Instagram.
Masterchef contestant Owen returns to our stage with his characteristic enthusiasm and some tasty dishes.
Sarah Thompson, General Manager at York Cocoa Works takes to our stage!
Chocolate Making – Crafting Chocolate from Cocoa Bean to Chocolate Bar
Live demonstrations from York College students and staff situated on a market stand at the heart of the Festival market. The College will also have information available about Careers and courses in Tourism and Hospitality.
Sarah Thompson, General Manager at York Cocoa Works takes to our stage!
Chocolate Tasting – Learning to taste chocolate like a professional.
York chef Stephen Cummings from City Screen Picturehouse
From a shipping container to a nationally respected restaurant via a pub and an appearance on Masterchef: Professionals, Stephen’s journey with Fish & Forest is as compelling as his food!
Everyone welcome to find out more about the exciting opportunities available in Hospitality, including an interactive mocktail making masterclass provided by the Hospitality Junior Board and numerous opportunities to meet those in the industry.
MasterChef UK 2022 semi-finalist, food writer and founder of Yummy by Design.
Yemi Adelekan is a Yorkshire-based fusion chef celebrated for her bold, spice-led cooking inspired by her Nigerian roots and global travels. Through her popular supper clubs and chef’s table experiences, Yemi creates unforgettable food experiences that feel like home, full of heart, culture, and creativity.
A demonstration from the chef-proprietor of Skosh
One of York’s most well regarded restaurants!
Caroline Bell from Shepherds Purse will be sharing some of their Award Winning cheese for you to sample and chatting about the about the family business, farming and cheesemaking.
The Culinary Director of The Mill Group is always a firm favourite at York Food & Drink Festival
Sarah Thompson, General Manager at York Cocoa Works takes to our stage with a Chocolate Tempering Demonstration
Fran from Ippuku Tea House brings her incredible knowledge of Japanese Cuisine to our Demonstration Theatre
