We have designed a hands-on program that accommodates any team building objective using a culinary platform.
The Iron Chef challenge begins with a welcome reception, where your guests enjoy a fully stocked bar and cocktail hors d’oeuvres. Approximately 30-45 minutes into the reception, guests are given a brief overview of the agenda, rules and general culinary safety.
Groups are then divided into color-coded teams, typically 6-8 people per team for groups of 20-40 and 10-12 people per team for groups over 50. Teams can either be defined prior to arrival or drawn at random during the cocktail reception.
Teams are introduced to the preparation kitchen and to their color-coordinating stations, where they are presented to the ingredients available as well as a “secret ingredient”. We ask that each group assign a team leader and designate 2 people from each team to be permitted in the hot kitchen at a time.
Teams are given 1 hour to create 1-3 platters that will be showcased at the end of the competition and sampled by the entire group. No recipes are provided thus allowing for inspiration, creativity and group cohesion as a whole. Hugh’s Culinary chefs are available to assist with any kitchen-related questions or requests.
Once the MC calls time, all platters are presented on the performance kitchen, where the leader from each group will introduce what they have prepared. Teams are then invited to enjoy their creations in a buffet-style fashion.
During dinner, the judges from Hugh’s Culinary will identify the winning team based on the following criteria:
- Team Spirit/Cohesion – How the group interacted as a whole, communication, stress management
- Organization – Team assessment and tasks assigned, overall cleanliness, efficiency
- Presentation/Creativity – Overall creativity of ingredients used and platter display, verbal presentation
- Taste – Quality of the dishes prepared based solely on taste
After the judges have announced the winning team, Hugh’s chefs will prepare and serve a unique dessert demonstration.
*Clients are encouraged to provide a grand prize for the winning team. Speak to your event coordinator for customized prize options, logo aprons & more!
All pricing is customized to your event date, guest count and team building preference. We look forward to hosting you and your guests!