We recently had the pleasure of hosting Richard Bagnold, of the restaurant review website, Major Foodie, into college to talk to our 1st, 2nd and 3rd year Michael Caines Academy Students.

Richard Bagnold is the only person to have dined in and reviewed every Michelin starred restaurant for 2018 in the UK. His website is dedicated to good food and all dining experiences, paid for by him, and are shared to compare all notable venues.

Richard spoke to students about who he is and what he does, as well as a little about the amazing food journey he has been on. He also gave a background to the Michelin guide itself, including why people are fascinated with it and what it takes to get a star – something our young chefs will be aiming for in their career. Richard has been doing this for 10 years but has been able to dedicate more time to it in the last 5 years. His passion certainly shines through when he is talking about his experiences. About his first Michelin starred meal he says:

I still remember the strawberry soup with chocolate truffles at Arzak, San Sebastian in 2007 with huge fondness.”

So what are his plans for the future?

Frankly it’s only just begun, it's nice to have some form of uniqueness – I believe I’m the only one to have done it. There are loads of places out there that don’t have a star which are really good that I would like to get to grips with, and there are more three star places that I am really looking forward to.” Richard is planning a trip to Japan in April, Thailand and Hong Kong in June and Napa Valley and New York in July and is excited to try the very best these areas have to offer.

Matt Pickett, Programme Leader said:

Days like today are what sets Exeter College apart when it comes to our links with Industry. Having guests like Richard share his unique experiences with over 75 students is vital to inspiring the next generation of professionals we’re nurturing here at College. Richards talk was fantastic and we hope to hear more about his journey through the UK's restaurant scene when we invite him back to meet more students in the future.”

We asked Richard what his advice was for students and above all he said you need to love what you do.

Doing it for the sake of it is different from doing it because you actually really love it. So it's not just to gain a label. Getting all the ones done in the country just seemed logical because it was just a lovely little extra thing to do but I was enjoying every single step of the way. If there was one thing I would say it’s explore the field you want to explore. It has to be something you're passionate about and I look forward to continuing my food exploration globally in the coming years”.

If you would like to read more about Richard then please visit his website here.

If you are interested in one of our hospitality courses then please look through what we have to offer here.

You can find out more about the Michael Caines Academy here.