Rising stars
With Nestle Professional’s 2025 Back of House Toque d’Or winner, Thomas Brassington.
Aug 18, 2025
Thomas Brassington, Loughborough College
As reported last issue, Thomas Brassington recently won Nestle Professional’s 2025 Back of House Toque d'Or award. Mentored and guided by a distinguished panel of judges, including Michelin-star chef Adam Handling MBE, the final 12 showcased their skills, creativity and passion across five days of real-life challenges focused on sustainability. These covered topics such as food provenance, regenerative agriculture and how hospitality plays an important role in supporting communities.
What made you want to work in hospitality?
I’ve always really wanted to work in hospitality, as I grew up cooking with my grandparents, which were some of my core and most happiest memories. My first job was as a kitchen porter in a restaurant, and I loved the team environment. This confirmed that I wanted to make a career out of it, which I have loved ever since I made the decision.
How did you come to apply for the competition?
My tutor at Loughborough College had told me about several competitions that they wanted me into enter this year, and Nestlé Professional Toque d’Or was one of them. After doing some research, I realised it’s a very prestigious competition and obviously agreed to be entered. I didn’t think I would get as far as I did, so it was definitely a surreal experience!
How did you find competing?
Competing in Toque d'Or was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, from the initial application, through the heats and into the final. I would recommend it to anyone, as you learn so much and can take so many skills away with you into the industry. You also make some really great connections, as people are so friendly and just want to help you on your journey to being the best chef you can be. I have made some really good friends.
How did it feel when you found out you had won the award?
I was very shocked, I hadn’t expected to go all the way and win! But it also showed me what I’m capable of, if I put my mind to it, focus and practice.
Why do you think you won?
I think I won because I was very enthusiastic about every challenge each day and wanted to get stuck in and learn. I also used my previous knowledge, implemented that into the challenges and paired flavours that I knew would work well.
What do you want to do in the future?
I am planning on travelling across Asia. I have had a massive interest in Asian food since I went on a family trip to Indonesia, as well as competing in, and winning, Zest Quest Asia this year. I plan to combine working in different restaurants to gain more authentic skills and experiences with exploring some amazing countries.
You may also be interested in…
