CATERER AWARDS 2012: The final leg

More than 200 entries were received for the Caterer Awards 2012 whittled down to just 75 of the regional F&B industry’s finest.

The battle to be awarded the prestigious title resulted in the receipt of a number of quality entries, making it challenging for the Caterer team to pick its shortlist.

We caught up with a few of the contenders to get their take on being shortlisted.

“I’m extremely satisfied that the Middle East industry is recognising and appreciating the role of a sommelier. I hope that through such events more people will understand our job and the value we add to a dining experience. I believe such acknowledgment will assist sommeliers establish, and in some cases, raise standards of beverage service in the region, said Eric Eybert, sommelier, St. Regis Saadiyat.

Head barman at the Meat Co. Souk Al Bahar Dubai, Venkatesh Sankar added: “I always try to deliver extra special service to ensure our client will return to our restaurant, and it’s wonderful to have that recognised. Also I work with great people in a wonderful environment, so I am very thankful for their support allowing me to strive to be where I want to be.”

Judges gathered during the first week of September to select winners over the 14 categories; 11 individual awards and three outlet awards. Click here for more on the Caterer Middle East Awards 2012 judges.

Kannapan Jayakumar, sommelier, Oeno Wine Bar, Dubai Mina Seyahi said: “Just being shortlisted is fantastic recognition and I can’t wait to meet the others shortlisted in my category.”

Caterer has picked out some of its favourite comments on the shortlisted candidates made by colleagues, nominators and customers, to demonstrate why they were worthy of making the cut. Click here to see the shortlisted candidates and their comments.

The winning 14 will be announced at a glittering ceremony on 26 September at Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai.