Dev Biswal, owner of The Cook's Tale restaurant in Canterbury's Castle Quarter, has been recognised as one of the nation's leading Asian chefs. At the Asian Oriental & Chef Awards held at the University of West London, Chef Biswal secured the prestigious title of "Best Asian Chef – Outside London", placing him a point behind the national winner.
Chef Biswal impressed the judging panel with his exquisite menu showcasing locally sourced ingredients. His starter included Kent mackerel with a crab briouat/samosa and Moroccan seafood harira, followed by a main course of Bengali-style slow-cooked mutton with a cigar of burnt aubergine and saffron pilaf rice.
The Award ceremony will be held on 4th July at the House of Lords, hosted by Lord Kamall in conjunction with the Asian Catering Federation. Rajesh Suri, chairman of the judging panel, commended the exceptional standard of competition, highlighting the "amazing dishes" created by the Chefs.
Morocco Calling!
In Stories From the Castle Quarter podcast, Chef Biswal shared his plans to expand the geography of culinary tours to easily reachable countries such as Croatia, Spain or Morocco. Following his culinary triumph this year, Dev announced a 10-day culinary tour to Morocco from 27th September to 6th October 2024. This exciting adventure follows a successful tour last year and includes flights, wine tasting, cooking classes, guided visits and 19 delicious meals for £3,250 (£3,450 for solo travellers).
A Taste of Morocco at The Cook's Tale
Canterbury residents can experience Chef Biswal's unique take on Moroccan cuisine without leaving town! Until 31st May 2024, The Cook's Tale is offering an 8-course Moroccan Seafood Tasting Menu for £70 or £100 with paired wines. This menu showcases the surprising commonalities between Moroccan and Indian flavours.
The Cook's Tale is known for its commitment to fresh, local ingredients, sourced within a 30-minute radius of the restaurant. Dev also runs Canterbury Experiences, offering special "culinary pilgrimages" that explore the picturesque Kent countryside.
Dev Biswal: A Culinary Journey
Originally from Orissa, India, Dev's culinary journey has taken him to Calcutta, Dubai, London and, finally, Canterbury. The Cook's Tale has received recognition from prestigious sources like Michelin, AA, Good Food and Harden's. Dev has also been featured on Channel 4's "Superscrimpers" and has received numerous accolades, including "Best Restaurant" at the Taste of Kent Awards and "Best Asian Chef of the Year" at the Asian Restaurant Awards.
Congratulations to Dev Biswal on his well-deserved national recognition!
Be sure to visit The Cook's Tale to experience this award-winning cuisine or book your spot on the upcoming Moroccan adventure.
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