Two chefs at University Hospital of Southampton have made it to the finals of a competition.

Christoffer Dopico Alles and Alex Cavallaro are in the running for NHS Chef of the Year 2024.

The competition showcases the best in health service catering emphasising nutrition, sustainability and creativity within a budget.

The meals cooked by Christoffer Dopico Alles and Alex CavallaroThe meals cooked by Christoffer Dopico Alles and Alex Cavallaro (Image: UHS)

The duo, who work predominately at ‘Feast’ restaurant at the hospital, impressed judges with their tasty allergen-free dishes and dedication to fresh, sustainable cooking.

Spanish head chef Christoffer said: “My background consists of freshly handmade cooking from fine dining to batch cooking for large events.

“I started with Serco here at University Hospital Southampton in January 2023 and was closely followed by Sam, the retail manager."

He added: “My passion for cooking came to the fore when I arrived in England in 2010 and was influenced by my late Grandfather who worked all his life as a chef.”