Scotland Set to Sizzle: ‘Tartan Pantry’ Launches to Champion Scottish Chefs and Produce

Tartan Pantry, the brainchild of multi award-winning chef Fraser Cameron and respected culinary personality Jacky Moss, will bring together rising stars and established talent from across Scotland in a celebration of the nation’s rich food heritage and innovative modern cuisine.

Open to professional chefs with a minimum of two years’ experience who live and work in Scotland, the competition has been created to showcase culinary excellence while championing local growers and producers to a wider audience.

Competitors will be invited to submit a two-course fine dining menu as their entry, demonstrating their creativity, technical skill, and understanding of how premium Scottish ingredients work together on the plate.

Those selected for the final will then face an exciting twist. Finalists will be challenged to create a new two-course menu using a specially curated “Tartan Pantry” of ingredients, revealed to them at short notice. The format is designed to test chefs’ ability to think on their feet and perform under pressure while delivering plates of exceptional food.

The competition will culminate in a high-profile final on 11 September hosted by West Lothian College and held in conjunction with Scottish Food & Drink September celebrations. In a unique collaboration, hospitality students from the College will act as sous chefs to the finalists, paired with chefs on the day to offer invaluable insight into working in a fast-paced professional kitchen environment.

Jacky Moss said: “Fraser and I have known each other for a while and have long wanted to create something exciting together. We've been delighted by the interest shown by the industry and are so grateful for the kindness and encouragement we've received.

We’re thrilled to have our esteemed judging panel on board led by the superlative Willie McCurrach OBE, and the support of these culinary legends means a great deal. Bringing a fine selection of Scottish produce into the spotlight is incredibly important to us, and we can’t wait to see what the competitors will create.”

Fiona Richmond, Head of Regional Food at Scotland Food & Drink, added: "From salmon and beef to fresh vegetables, dairy and eggs, Scotland is home to some of the highest quality produce in the world, and as a judge for the new Tartan Pantry competition, I'm looking forward to seeing the creative, innovative and exciting ways each ingredient is brought to life on the plate. 

"It's fantastic to be involved with a competition that champions and celebrates what's available on our doorstep, especially as this year's Scottish Food & Drink September will showcase how 'Every Bite Tells a Story'. Good luck to all the applicants – I can't wait to taste your dishes!"

Entries open on 1 June, with further details, rules and prize information available at: tartanpantry.com