Croydon’s second annual food festival came to a close last weekend after three weeks of gastronomic delights.
The festival ended with celebrity chef, Tony Tobin, pitting his culinary wits against local food superstar Malcolm John, in a live cooking demonstration, the last event at the Whitgift Kitchen Theatre on Sunday.
Mr Tobin said: “Croydon is a bit of hidden secret when it comes to food.
"But there are so many different cuisines available in the area, whether it’s French, Spanish, Mexican, Indian, Caribbean or Thai you’re after, you can get it all in Croydon, and more.”
There have been a variety of international food markets and professional chefs have been keeping crowds entertained over the course of the festival at Surrey Street market, treating visitors to trade secrets as well as handing out free food.
Two local companies, Chequers Contract Services Ltd and Custom TV took part in a Hell’s kitchen-style cook off, whipping up a delicious three course meal with the help of trainee chefs at Croydon College.
The battle was won by Chequers, who narrowly pipped Custom TV to the title in a split decision.
Nearly £2,000 was raised for charity and organisers hope to include more teams next year.
The festival was good for business with a 2.5 per cent increase in visitors to the town.
Ross Morgan, Croydon Town Centre Business Improvement District Manager, said: “Croydon Food Festival has been a brilliant couple of weeks and I’m delighted that the events have been so well received in the community.”
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