Casa’s executive chef Joel Breakwell has been named among 30 'outstanding' key players in hospitality under the age of 30. The individuals who made it onto The Caterer Acorn Awards 2023's 30 Under 30 List work in all corners of the UK industry.
Joel has worked across Peter Sanchez-Iglesias's Redcliffe restaurants - Michelin-starred Paco Tapas and Casa - since 2018, joining the team as commis chef and becoming head chef at Paco Tapas just a year later. When Peter closed Casamia in 2022, Joel was named executive chef of Casa, the new Italian restaurant launched in its place. He now oversees the kitchens at both restaurants.
The annual awards hosted by The Caterer seek to highlight and celebrate the achievements of 30 outstanding individuals, with each winner nominated by their peers for their exceptional ability in their field. The awards, in their 37th year, were presented by the publication's editor James Stagg and CH&Co chief operating officer Allister Richards.
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Mr Richards said: "The announcement of the Acorn Awards winners is always a welcome tonic. It gives us the opportunity to pause and revel in the incredible young talent our industry fosters, and the amazing opportunities hospitality can offer those with the ambition and drive to succeed and make a positive difference."
Joel began his culinary journey working in hotel kitchens around the south west, including the Old Bell Hotel, Malmesbury, before joining the team at the Michelin-starred Olive Tree restaurant in Bath. He later moved to Bovey Castle in Devon back in 2016, during which time, the restaurant won its 3AA rosettes.
In 2017, Joel relocated to Courchevel, France to join the kitchen team at Cucina Angelina at Le Hotel Portetta, before returning to the UK food scene at the acclaimed Casamia. A longstanding member of Peter Sanchez-Iglesias’ team, Joel then joined the Paco Tapas team next door in 2019 to become head chef, before assuming his current role as executive chef of both Casa and Paco Tapas.
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