An interesting debate has kicked off on Caterer and Hotelkeeper's forums and photos site Table Talk.
Forum member BreilBistro has asked what professional chefs think about the amateurs that make names for themselves through the likes of Masterchef? Have they paid their dues?
There's no doubt that the rise of celebrity chefs and cookery shows, not to mention Michel Roux Jr's Art of Service series last year, has raised the profile of an industry that continues to battle with a skills shortage.
But is there any harm in glamourising hospitality and cheffing? Well, yes. I'd say there is. For every iota of talent that might otherwise lay floundering down an alternative career path had inspiration not been found from foodie favourites such as Great British Menu, there's probably a heap of it that has no idea just how hard work it is.
Take chefs, for example. Not wishing to massage their already inflated egos (massive generalisation, yes, but I know quite a few chefs so speak from experience - even they wouldn't disagree), but they work very hard for long hours.
The same goes for front of house. And housekeepers. And night porters. And catering managers. And events organisers. And bar staff. You get my drift.
What television fails to get across when it's editing footage into a neat 58 minute bundle (45 with ads) is the true nature of the beast. It's hard work.
But like anything, if you put the hours and effort in, you will reap the reward. I like to think professional chefs don't look down on the budding amateurs with scorn but instead offer to support and nurture genuine talent. In my experience, they often do. Which is nice!
With that in mind, look out for my forthcoming post on the culinary dynasty that is the Roux family. The Roux Legacy, currently airing on UKTV Good Food every night until Thursday at 8pm takes a look at the enduring talent and creativity of a most inspiring family made up of brothers Albert and Michel Roux and their respective sons Michel Jr and Alain.
Top British chef names including Pierre Koffmann, Nathan Outlaw and Bryn Williams wax lyrical about their idols.
Check out a sneak peak here:
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