23/09/2026
We have the Top 10 contenders in this year's Kitchen Porter of the Year competition, bringing the 2026 search for hospitality's standout unsung hero a step closer to its conclusion.
Judging took place at the Tasting Room in Fortnum & Mason, London. The shortlist showcases the exceptional standard now being seen across the sector, as well as the wide variety of businesses putting forward their kitchen porters for recognition.
“We are very proud to be the founders of the Kitchen Porter of the Year competition,” says Stephen Kinkead, managing director of Winterhalter UK. “Each year the competition becomes tougher to judge as the calibre continues to grow. After much deliberation, we have an incredibly strong shortlist."
The Top 10, listed in alphabetical order, is:
⭐ Aaron Plummer of BaxterStorey, S&W - nominated by Jo Flood and Kriti Kakkar
⭐ Attila Droszler of Cantley House Hotel - nominated by Thomas Cruise
⭐ Buba Bozhidara of Aberdeen Football Club - nominated by Jo Flood
⭐Fred Jeffrey of Exeter College Hospitality Department - nominated by Paul Carne
⭐ Geoff Goater of Rick Stein, Wi******er - nominated by Chris Baker
⭐ James "Jimmy" Higgins of The Vincent Hotel - nominated by Wendy Lucas
⭐Jamaine Ewers of The Raffles Hotel London - nominated by Nathan Craigie
⭐Jim McQuail of Edinburgh International Conference Centre - nominated by Caroline Bacigalupo
⭐ Laraine Jolly of Lowry - nominated by Alex North
⭐ Rachid Nemar of The Landmark Hotel - nominated by Ignatius Izah
Congratulations to all! Thank you for your hard work!
Keep an eye out for the winner in the coming weeks!
Read more: https://sohub.io/1jua