Marble Arch London Hotel Chef Wins British Asparagus Competition

LONDON--(Marketwire - Mar 19, 2013) - Testing his skills among the best of the best, Chef Peter Chlupacek of the London Marriott Marble Arch Hotel was among the top five competitors in the UK Marriott's British Asparagus contest held recently to draw attention to one of Britain's most treasured spring veggies.

A sure signal to the start of spring, British asparagus can easily be described as seasonal produce that is most eagerly awaited among vegetable lovers across the United Kingdom, and this national competition helps Marriott chefs hone their skills in preparation for the season. Usually making its annual debut around the April 23 celebration of St. George's Day, the asparagus season runs for only about six to eight weeks depending upon the weather, putting chefs into a scramble to create exciting and tasty versions of Britain's beloved perennial. Talented chefs inside Central London restaurants such as this luxury hotel's Brasserie Centrale and Chat's Café Bar offer a variety of tantalizing menu options to accentuate the flavourful green spears during the growing season.

Utilizing asparagus sourced through Fresh Direct from Markham's Farm just a few miles from Bicester, the 63 chefs participating in the competition were required to create an asparagus dish suitable for either a small or large portion using the CookSmart philosophy. The contest was open to all levels of UK chefs working under the Marriott brand, from apprentice to executive, with only one recipe per chef allowed. A photo of the completed dish was also required.

Chlupacek's Shaved Asparagus with golden beetroot, pomegranate and truffle vinaigrette won him recognition on a national menu as his name will appear alongside his dish as part of Marriott's asparagus promotion throughout the UK. The top five winners will also be treated to a visit of Markham's Farm, a guided tour of Fresh Direct and dinner at Fresh Direct's "Muddy Duck" restaurant.

Known for offering freshly prepared dishes with a creative twist, Brasserie Centrale is conveniently located inside the Marriott's 4-star hotel in the heart of London and welcomes guests with an inviting atmosphere amidst its newly refurbished contemporary décor. Also located inside the hotel, Chats Bar is an ideal stop for Afternoon Tea, lunch or drinks and joins Brasserie Centrale in providing personalized service while offering a variety of International dishes prepared from some of the area's finest produce.

About the London Marriott Hotel Marble Arch

Boasting a prime location in the heart of Central London, the distinctive London Marriott Hotel Marble Arch provides stylish boutique lodging near prominent financial district destinations, popular attractions, impressive Oxford Street shopping and exciting West End Theatres. Surrounded by some of the city's finest restaurants, the hotel features opulent accommodations and full-service amenities including Marriott Leisure Club access to a fully equipped fitness centre and heated indoor pool to ensure London visitors have everything needed for a remarkable hotel stay.