Roux Scholarship 2019 winner to undertake stage at Restaurant Frantzén, Stockholm

Spencer Metzger will become the first Roux scholar to undertake his winning three-month stage in Scandinavia.

He will join the three-star Michelin restaurant Frantzén in Stockholm from January. Founded by Bjorn Frantzén, Frantzén won its third Michelin star in 2018, becoming the first Swedish restaurant to be awarded the accolade.

Mertzger, premier sous chef at the Ritz London who also won £6,000 following his triumph in the scholarship final in April this year, visited Frantzén during his research to decide the location of his stage.

“It was the best dining experience I have ever had,” he said. “Every single detail was thought out from the moment you walked in until you left. The team worked seamlessly together and had a genuine love for their profession and the restaurant.

“The food is focused on the finest ingredients elevating them into complex, delicious and clever dishes, which I found really inspiring. I am really excited to be immersed in the team and be part of the work which goes into creating this amazing experience.”

Head chef of Frantzén, Charlie Benitez, said: "We are looking forward to welcome Spencer to Stockholm and introduce him to the gastronomy of Frantzén but also introduce him to the way we work."

Michel Roux Jr, chairman of the scholarship, said: “Frantzén is truly exceptional; I was blown away by my last visit and am envious. Bjorn Frantzén’s style is respectful of nature, full of panache and bold flavours built on classic technique. While in Stockholm, Spencer will have a chance to immerse himself in the world-renowned Scandi food culture, an experience every chef dreams of.”

Fellow chairman Alain Roux added: “I have not yet had the pleasure of visiting Sweden or having met chef Frantzén. I know the experience will be brilliant for Spencer. I can’t wait to share his feedback and vision of the dining scene there.”

Metzger is the 36th recipient of the Roux Scholarship. Last year's winner Martin Carabott spent his stage in New York at Daniel Humm's three-Michelin-star restaurant Eleven Madison Park.