Catering

Where Purity Meets Culinary Passion: Behind the Scenes with Pure Ionic Water

Pure Ionic Water Supports Culinary Excellence at Xcelerate with Edgbaston, Fueling the Future of Hospitality Talent

At Pure Ionic Water, we believe the foundation of exceptional cuisine begins with purity—pure technique, pure ingredients, and of course, Pure Ionic Water. Back at the beginning of June we were honoured to support a unique showcase of rising talent at Xcelerate with Edgbaston, Compass Group UK & Ireland’s cutting-edge culinary training facility at Edgbaston Stadium. As the official water sponsor for the event, we were proud to hydrate and empower the chefs and students behind a remarkable four-course fine dining experience.

In collaboration with South & City College Birmingham and The Chefs’ Forum, this event brought together tomorrow’s culinary stars with seasoned professionals from across Compass brands—including Restaurant Associates and Levy UK + Ireland—for an unforgettable industry lunch. Designed to inspire, educate and elevate, the showcase highlighted not only culinary skill and innovation, but the importance of premium, sustainable ingredients at every stage—including the water used in preparation, cooking, and service.

Hydrating Creativity, Fueling Excellence

From blanching to steaming to simply staying focused and refreshed during the high-pressure lunch service, Pure Ionic Water played an essential role behind the scenes. Our ultra-purified, alkaline water—infused with essential electrolytes—helps chefs maintain energy and clarity, while enhancing the delicate flavours of seasonal produce and premium proteins.

A Menu Crafted with Care—and Hydrated by Purity

The collaborative menu celebrated seasonal ingredients and global inspiration, brought to life through cutting-edge culinary technique. With support from Ritter Courivaud, Dole Foodservice, Aussie Beef & Lamb—and hydrated with Pure Ionic Water—each dish represented a fusion of passion and precision:

  • Canapés featured Aussie beef tartar with English wasabi and slow-cooked lamb neck with aged feta and peas.

  • Starter by Adam Thomason (Restaurant Associates) offered a refreshing plate of asparagus, chard, grapefruit and rye.

  • Fish Course by Christopher Alexander (Restaurant Associates) showcased hand-dived scallops with crème fraîche and herring roe.

  • Main Course by Mathew Ludlow (Xcelerate) was a bold composition of guinea fowl, miso, celeriac, and shiitake.

  • Dessert by Asher Robinson and Elliot Clifton (Levy) reimagined the classic rhubarb and custard with cheesecake, compote, sorbet, and a custard crumb.

The Future of Food Starts Here

The event not only demonstrated the incredible potential of the next generation of chefs, but also the critical role that mentorship, facilities, and quality ingredients play in their growth. As Adam Thomason, Culinary Director at Restaurant Associates, shared:

“Having the students with us at Xcelerate was a natural extension of the work we’ve done through The Chefs’ Forum Academy. It’s vital that young chefs experience what’s possible in this industry—and this lunch was a perfect example.”

For South & City College Birmingham, the event was an eye-opener for students. Chef Lecturer Sheri Cadwallader reflected:

“Seeing our learners work in a professional kitchen alongside renowned chefs is priceless. It brings their education to life.”

Empowering Through Purpose

Jonathan Foot, Director of Skills and Early Careers at Compass Group UK & Ireland, echoed the wider mission:

“This is what Xcelerate is about—immersing students in real-world experiences and elevating them through quality mentorship and premium ingredients.”

This aligns with Compass Group’s Social Promise, which aims to positively impact one million lives by 2030.

Proud to Partner with Culinary Innovators

At Pure Ionic Water, we’re more than just hydration—we’re a premium ingredient. We’re proud to support the next generation of chefs and collaborate with visionaries shaping the future of food. Events like this prove that when passion, mentorship, and purity come together, the results are extraordinary.

To learn more about Xcelerate with Edgbaston, visit xceleratewithedgbaston.co.uk.

Photo Credit (on all photos): Carlos Farinha

Do you want to serve the finest ingredients in your Hotel, Restaurant or Bar?

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