Responsible for cooking up a storm in the GastroLab is Development Chef, Alan McKenna.
When the GastroNorth team first came up with the idea for the GastroLab, we knew that we would need a talented Development Chef who would be able to execute the concept to its full potential.
GastroNorth Director, Tim Whitfield, was already aware of Alan’s extensive experience, which made him the team’s first choice thanks to his impressive talent and background in the industry.
The GastroLab launched in March this year, with Alan being brought on board to kick things off with a few demonstrations.
Alan said: “It started off as just a temporary thing, but before long I decided to come on full board, officially working two days a week in the GastroLab.
“I’ve really been enjoying the new challenge, which is why I decided to take on the role as development chef permanently, I find it really therapeutic working in the GastroLab and the team are happy with the work I’ve been doing, too, so that’s great.”
As the development chef at GastroLab, Alan’s main priority is to showcase the catering equipment that GastroNorth can offer their customers.
“I’ve learned all the ins and outs of each piece of equipment and created dishes that I can cook in them, producing both the recipe and cooking method of each dish,” said Alan.
“Potential clients are then invited in to come and see a cooking demonstration and the equipment in action, as well as do a bit of taste testing.”
The innovative GastroLab gives Chefs the chance to try before they buy, with the chance to see equipment from leading manufacturers around the world, such as the Mibrasa oven, Unox combination oven, Ascenti F1 pizza oven and many more, all expertly designed to save time on the job.
Alan has been in the culinary industry for over 30 years and even owns two restaurants, McKenna’s and Fell’s Kitchen, in the Newcastle area.
His expertise and passion for both cooking and the GastroLab is part of what makes the GastroLab experience such an enjoyable one, with Alan on hand to train staff in equipment and even take a side step as other Chefs have a go for themselves.
He said: “The GastroLab is going extremely well and we’re really pushing it. It’s an outstanding idea, we’ve had some fantastic feedback from everyone who has visited so far.
“Trends in the catering industry are always changing and technology is always on the move and we will aim to adhere to that with our offering.”
If you would like to pay Alan a visit and see what the GastroLab has to offer then please email marketing@upnorthgroup.com or call 0191 4142882.
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