#026 - Behind the Craft Guild of Chefs Awards 2026

Guests: Industry leaders, award winners, chefs and hospitality professionals from across the UK

Host: Phil Street

What does one of hospitality's biggest celebrations actually feel like?

In this special episode of Chefs on the Pass, Phil heads backstage, front of house, and everywhere in between at the Craft Guild of Chefs Awards, capturing the excitement, anticipation and emotion of one of the industry's biggest nights.

From conversations before the first award is announced, to catching winners moments after they've stepped off stage, this episode is a genuine behind the scenes snapshot of an evening dedicated to recognising the very best of hospitality.

Featuring appearances from industry leaders, educators, award winners and familiar faces, you'll hear why this event means so much to so many people and why celebrating success matters just as much as achieving it.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• The buzz and anticipation before the awards begin.
• Why the Craft Guild Awards continue to unite every corner of hospitality.
• What recognition means to chefs, lecturers, suppliers and hospitality leaders.
• First reactions from winners moments after receiving their awards.
• Stories of friendship, mentorship and careers built through the Guild.
• Why this industry continues to thrive because of the people behind it.

Listen now for:

• The emotion of winning an industry award.
• Honest reflections from people who've dedicated decades to hospitality.
• Why recognition isn't just about trophies—it's about inspiring the next generation.
• A genuine flavour of one of the biggest nights in the hospitality calendar.

Memorable Moments:

"I feel like a proud dad tonight" – Mark Reynolds

"It's about recognising the unsung heroes" – Lisa Jenkins

"The conversations around the tables are as important as the awards themselves" – Simon Rimmer

"It's amazing to celebrate the people behind the scenes" – Neil Radia

Featuring:

• Mark Reynolds
• Simon Rimmer
• David Mulcahy
• Lisa Goodwin-Allen
• Danny Young
• John Holden
• ...plus many more guests, winners and familiar faces from across UK hospitality.

This episode is for:

• Hospitality professionals who love celebrating the people behind the industry.
• Students and apprentices discovering what's possible.
• Anyone curious about one of the UK's biggest culinary celebrations.
• Those who believe hospitality is built on community as much as competition.

Links & Resources:

• Phil Street (Host): LinkedIn & Instagram @hospitalitymeets
• Craft Guild of Chefs

Want More?

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