Twenty two year old pastry chef Ellie Gray has whisked her way to the top, scooping the MacRobert Trust Emerging Talent award at the Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards. Ellie, now advances to the national 2024 Scottish Thistle Awards in Glasgow in November.
Judges said of Ellie, who sprinkles her magic in the kitchens of The Chester Hotel, that she had incredibly infectious enthusiasm, ambition and a passion for the industry, describing her as a force of nature.
Starting her culinary journey at just 16, Ellie’s rise in the kitchen is a recipe for success. She’s gone from rural roots to rubbing elbows—and rolling dough—with Michelin-starred chefs like Angela Hartnett, Tom Kerridge, Adam Handling and Michael o’ Hare.
Ellie Gray (far right) and Lisa Goodwin Allen (chef's whites and blue apron)
As well as her flair for pastries and desserts, Ellie’s colleagues enjoy her ability to keep her cool, even when the kitchen heats up. Ellie’s work includes perfecting afternoon teas and creating The Chester Hotel’s dessert menu.
Graham Wood, co-owner of The Chester Hotel said: “Ellie brings an incredible mix of talent, passion, and an unshakeable work ethic to everything she does. We’re thrilled to see her hard work and dedication recognised at the Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards.”
The awards celebrate the crème de la crème of the region’s tourism and hospitality industry, recognising excellence across 15 categories.