Master of Culinary Arts 2022 opens for entries

The Royal Academy of Culinary Arts has opened the Master of Culinary Arts (MCA) for entries.

The award recognises outstanding craftsmanship among chefs, pastry chefs and restaurant managers in the UK.

Based on the Meilleur Ouvrier de France and inaugurated in 1987, the MCA is held every four years and winners carry the title for life.

The award of Master of Culinary Arts (MCA) is conferred on those who have displayed mastery of the complex and specialised knowledge and skills in culinary arts or restaurant management and service.

The holder of the MCA can prove advanced technical skill and professional ability, contribute to supervision and management, demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of the principles of sustainability and the viability of food sources throughout the scope of the food chain, and demonstrate leadership and support of the development of others.

Applicants must also have at least 10 years’ full-time experience in their specific trade, a range of industrial experience at various levels including at least three years at a senior level, a working knowledge of written and spoken English, a broad knowledge of traditional and modern gastronomy and service, and have undertaken a range of activities as part of their continuing professional development.

Entries close on Friday 31 March with finals taking place in September and October, and a gala presentation dinner scheduled for 28 October at Claridge’s in London.

John Williams, executive chef at the Ritz London and chairman of the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts, said: “The MCA is the highest honour in the catering industry; it examines the very finest details in service, pastry and kitchen and is the pinnacle of each discipline.

"For me, a Master of Culinary Arts is a person who strives for perfection in their profession and has the grace and elegance to promote our craft to the next generation.”

Full details of how to enter can be found on the RCA website here.