Cooking up a STORM!

MICHEL ROUX JR on what sets his culinary contest apart

- CAREN CLARK

FIVE STAR KITCHEN: BRITAIN'S NEXT GREAT CHEF

THURSDAY, 8PM, C4 COOKERY

The heat is rising in C4's Five Star Kitchen: Britain's Next Great Chef as Michel Roux Jr continues his mission to find an undiscovered talent who can blaze a trail through the luxury hospitality industry.

Last week's opening episode saw 13 contestants pitch their restaurant concepts to the Michelin-starred chef along with his fellow judges, Junior Bake Off's Ravneet Gill and Ready Steady Cook's Mike Reid.

Now, the remaining seven contenders must face a range of complex culinary challenges in their bid to win the chance to run the prestigious Palm Court restaurant in London hotel The Langham, where Michel is a consultant.

TV Times caught up with Michel, 63, to find out what's on the menu...

What appealed to you about judging this show?

What sets this competition apart is that the prize is tangible. It’s not a trophy or a pat on the back. It’s real; it’s their name on the door and their opportunity to showcase their concept and qualities. It’s about making sure we cause a stir in the London dining scene! It’s super-exciting.

How can the chefs impress you?