Former Noma chef Damian Wawrzyniak to open culinary academy
Former Noma chef, restaurateur and Craft Guild of Chefs UK master craftsman Damian Wawrzyniak is to open a new culinary academy in London.
It will run short- and long-term courses, and the highest-attaining students will also have the chance to complete their course with a work experience placement in a prestigious professional kitchen in Britain.
It will aim to teach knife skills, improve tasting palates and presentation, as well as a historical element designed to give students an understanding of the origins of cooking, and how modern cuisine has evolved over the centuries.
There will also be a food laboratory, theory rooms and demonstration rooms in which chefs will demonstrate masterclasses and techniques, alongside tutors and lecturers from around the world, who have been chosen by Wawrzyniak for their expertise and teaching skills.
All modules have been designed by Wawrzyniak himself, who is also taking a key role in sourcing the equipment and evaluating the learning systems.
Wawrzyniak commented on the historical elements of the new academy's plans. He said: "Incorporated into the curriculum is a fascinating history of cuisine module, which delves into the origins of cooking and the techniques that were used thousands of years ago. Students will gain an enhanced knowledge of gastronomic history, and learn about the historical significance of certain ingredients."
Formerly a chef at renowned two Michelin-starred restaurant Noma, in Copenhagen, the chef is also the founder of the Fine Art of Dining, a restaurant and food consultancy designed to help develop concepts and ideas for catering services, restaurants and hotels, including at events such as the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympics.
It also creates supper clubs, private masterclasses and smaller-scale events.
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