The Gastronomes Award.
Identifying and encouraging excellence in professional food & beverage service — and backing the people with the potential to lead the industry.
A leg-up for rising talent.
This Réunion initiative offers a unique opportunity for learning and career advancement, supported by the members of the society. It is designed to encourage and support those building a career in food and beverage services — people who also have the future potential for full membership of the Réunion.
There is no age limit. The award is open to anyone working full-time at team-management level and above, in food and beverage services, in the United Kingdom.
How the Award works.
Anyone working full-time at team-management level and above in F&B services in the UK. Applicants should evidence their education, training and career achievements — and a long-term commitment to the field. No age limit.
An invitation to attend a Réunion des Gastronomes event, a Finalist Certificate, and two years' complimentary Associate Membership of the Réunion.
In addition: an invitation for the winner and a work colleague to the Annual Banquet; the Gastronomes Award Certificate and Trophy; two individual invitations to Gastronome events; a year of mentoring from Gastronome members; an invitation to a Champagne Academy Tasting; and a range of tailored industry-based development experiences.
Our most recent winners.
Announced at the Réunion's 106th Annual Banquet, held at Lambeth Palace, by the Chair of the Panel, Gastronome John Cousins, and presented with the Trophies by the President, Martin Dibben. Both became Associate Members of the Gastronomes for two years.
How to apply.
Entries for the 2026 Award are open. Complete the application form, which also asks for a statement of support and endorsement from your employer or manager, and the name and contact details of one other industry professional who can support your application.
Download the form
Download the application form and save it to your device with your name in the title, then open it in a PDF reader to complete it.
Add your CV
Prepare your up-to-date Curriculum Vitae in PDF, evidencing your training, education and career achievements.
Endorsement & referee
Include your employer's statement of support, plus the name and contact details of one other industry professional.
Submit by email
Email your completed form and CV — both in PDF — to gastronomes@gastronomes.org no later than Monday 3 August 2026.
Key dates.
People who do not accept the new, grow old very quickly.