The Chefs You Don't Want to Miss at Living North's Christmas Fair in York
With so much experience between them, the chef demo kitchen is the place to be at our Christmas Fair this November
Neil Bentinck, Skosh
Chef-owner Neil Bentinck opened his dining room, Skosh, in the historic city of York in June 2016. Housed in a refurbished, Grade II-listed building, Neil has designed a modern and informal space to enjoy an eclectic mix of snacks and small plates with a succinct wine list, local and international craft beers and seasonal cocktails. Skosh has received both local and national acclaim and holds three AA Rosettes and a Michelin Bib Gourmand. Neil’s Indian family heritage and worldwide travels have helped sculpt his style, which is reflected in his diverse menus.
Peter Sidwell, Living North columnist
Peter Sidwell is not just a professional chef, but a culinary storyteller. From his globally recognised online cookery show to judging on ITV’s Britain’s Best Bakery, his knowledge knows no bounds. His TV appearances, from Channel 4’s Lakes on a Plate to Amazon Prime Video’s Taste of the Lakes, take viewers on a captivating journey through the heart of his culinary inspiration. Peter continues to enchant audiences with his knowledge and expertise and as our in-house chef, every month Peter creates fabulously seasonal recipes especially for Living North readers.
Tomahawk
Join the Tomahawk team as they cook up some Himalayan salt-aged steak and all of your favourite Tomahawk sides. Executive chef Lee will be joined by Allan and Fabrice to give you a step by step workshop of how to cook the perfect steak at home. There'll be top tips, voucher giveaways, and plenty of tasters for everyone.
Kevin Bonello, The Grand, York
With an impressive culinary background spanning more than two decades, including time as head chef at Michelin-starred restaurant De Mondion, Kevin brings a wealth of expertise and innovation to The Grand’s esteemed culinary team. Kevin works with Ahmed Abdalla, head chef of the hotel’s Michelin-recommended restaurant, Legacy, and Marc Williams, director of The Cookery School at The Grand. Prior to joining The Grand, Kevin served as the culinary director at Xara Collection for an impressive 21 years.
Bobby Geetha, Kerala Canteen
Bringing the rich flavours of Kerala to the UK, the offering at Kerala Canteen blends traditional recipes with contemporary influence. Bobby is an award-winning chef who grew up in Southern India and now calls Leeds home, after spending time in the prestigious kitchens at Noma, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal and Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons. He also appeared on series 17 of Great British Menu where he wowed the judges with his intricate flavour combinations.
Varun Khanna, Rhubarb
Varun Khanna is the chef at Rhubarb in Harrogate, where he brings a refined and interesting approach to modern cuisine. With a deep respect for seasonal ingredients and a background rooted in both classical techniques and contemporary flavour innovation, Varun crafts dishes that balance creativity and classic flavours to create a unique dining experience.
Owen Diaram, Cook with Owen
Owen, from Harrogate, competed in BBC MasterChef UK in 2023 and finished as a quarter finalist. He now works as a private chef using the freshest ingredients and exciting local produce, combined with spices and herbs from his South African and Indian heritage. John Torode described Owen as a ‘flavour master’ after he produced two star dishes on MasterChef. Owen designs and creates incredible-tasting food and regularly appears on stage at food festivals, sharing his passion for food with a whole new audience. More recently he has launched his own spice range under the Cook with Owen brand. The onion bhaji mix won a 2024 Great Taste Award, one of the industry’s highest accolades.
Olayemi Adelekan, Yummy by Design
Olayemi Adelekan at Yummy by Design is a passionate cook and MasterChef UK 2022 semi finalist who has been cooking for more than 40 years. She shares her love and passion for food through food blogging, content creation, as a private chef and through private dining services, demonstrations, pop up events, supper clubs and a weekly food feature (Yemi’s Food Stories) celebrating Yorkshire food events, producers and their produce. She is part of the 2023/24 American Academy of The Taste Awards Judges and a past presenter and judge for the BBC Radio York Make A Difference Awards.
Chris Hobson, The View
With more than 20 years in the hospitality industry, Chris Hobson has worked his way up from humble pot washer to award-winning chef, gaining a wealth of knowledge and expertise along the way. Chris has honed his craft in some of the finest hotels and restaurants, including a prestigious two-AA Rosette fine dining establishment, and has become a respected figure on the Yorkshire food scene, making appearances on BBC Radio York’s Yorkshire Kitchen series with Kat Cowan and featuring on Channel 4’s Yorkshire by the Sea. In 2025, Chris embarked on his most exciting venture yet – The View Restaurant in Scarborough, where he brings his ethos to life, working closely with local suppliers to ensure his dishes are fresh, seasonal and sustainable, celebrating the outstanding quality of Yorkshire’s produce.
Josh Barnes, Chef’s Table by Josh Barnes at Swinton Estate
Chef Josh Barnes has more than a decade of experience in some of the UK’s top Michelin kitchens, and his Chef’s Table experience is at the heart of the Swinton Estate. Earning a place in the Michelin Guide, Chef’s Table invites diners into the kitchen where the talented team use local produce to create dishes right in front of you. Come prepared with questions, as participation is part of the experience!
David Paddle, Black Dog Wine Agency
Husband-and-wife team, Katie and David import boutique wines from small producers, bringing their passion for wine to the UK. Named after their first rescue dog, Black Dog Wine Agency began with a love for all things New Zealand and have now expanded to include imports from South Africa. The pair have a combined 45 years worth of experience in the wine industry and love to share their knowledge with customers.
Le Gruyère
The festive period can always be defined by one thing in the kitchen – an abundance of fabulous cheese. If you’re seeking inspiration on how to make the most of this versatile staple, head to the Chef Demo Kitchen where the talented team from Le Gruyère will give you the tips you need to know to wow your guests this Christmas.
