Delaware to name new Wembley executive chef

The search for an executive chef to oversee the food offering at the new Wembley Stadium is close to completion, Caterer has learnt.

The stadium's exclusive caterer, Delaware North Companies, is believed to be on the brink of appointing a replacement for previous executive chef Stephen Wheeler, who left the role late last year.

The new executive chef will be responsible for the stadium's conference, banqueting, hospitality and restaurant outlets run by Delaware North, which has a 25-year partnership with Wembley.

The troubled stadium, which finally opens officially with the FA Cup Final on 19 May, will have 803 points of sale and employ a total of 3,000 hospitality staff, making it one of the biggest catering sites in Europe.

It will include the 950-cover Atrium restaurant, serving buffet food, the great hall and banquet space for up to 1,500 people, as well as four signature restaurants of 650 covers each, including two à la carte eateries and two brasseries.

The stadium, which has a capacity of 90,000, will also feature two Champagne and seafood bars as well as two large free-flow public catering areas, 162 private boxes, two super boxes and a royal suite for up to 400 people.

Earlier this year, Michelin-starred chef Tom Aikens signed a deal with Delaware North to create an exclusive dessert menu for the new members' club at the stadium. Under the deal, Aikens is designing a range of signature desserts to be served in the club's Corinthian Restaurant.

For more go to Caterer's blog >>

Tom Aikens to design desserts for Wembley >>

By Kerstin Kühn

E-mail your comments to Kerstin Kühn here.