Royal Academy of Culinary Arts celebrates the finest Scottish sourcing, success, and service

From The Balmoral to Gleneagles, and Hebridean scallops to Highland beef, Scotland has a prestigious hospitality heritage, as well as access to some of the culinary world’s finest ingredients. 

This spring sees the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts (RACA) highlight Scottish hospitality in all its 5-star glory. RACA will celebrate Scotland’s hospitality scene through a series of events that support and applaud the industry as well as champion the next generation of culinary talent.

This will see RACA host its next Plenary at the iconic 5-star The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh, where members will come together to discuss solutions to some of the challenges currently faced by the industry as well as celebrate operator success and the next generation of talent. Additionally, three of RACA’s Annual Award of Excellence heats are taking place across Scotland, showcasing the finest regional talent. These include heats at Gleneagles, Turnberry, and The Balmoral, where Scotland’s emerging stars will work towards achieving one of the hospitality industry’s most coveted awards.

RACA is also excited to have welcomed Scotland’s first National Chef – Gary Maclean as an Academician. One of the region’s most acclaimed chefs, Maclean's tireless dedication to culinary education, nurturing of students, and championing Scotland’s hospitality sector aligns closely with the values of RACA. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated exceptional talent, inspiring countless students and advocating for Scotland’s hospitality industry. His passion for teaching and mentoring has had a lasting impact, not only at the City of Glasgow College, but also across the wider industry.

Maclean comments: “Joining the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts is an honour. It’s an exciting opportunity to further contribute to the growth and recognition of Scottish hospitality. Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about nurturing talent and advocating for our industry. I’m proud to be part of an organisation that shares these values and is dedicated to excellence in culinary and hospitality education. 

We are also delighted to be one of the first five colleges in RACA’s new College Community Programme in partnership with The Savoy Educational Trust and our lecturers and students are looking forward to working with the academy’s academician and associate members.”

The Royal Academy of Culinary Arts remains committed to celebrating Scotland's exceptional culinary heritage and supporting the next generation of talent. With key events such as the Plenary at The Balmoral Hotel and the Annual Award of Excellence heats at iconic venues like Gleneagles and Turnberry, RACA is proud to champion the individuals and teams shaping the future of Scottish hospitality.

For more information, please visit www.royalacademyofculinaryarts.org.uk or call 020 8673 6300.