Roux Scholarship 2023: Edinburgh chef Max Davies in running to be named UK's best cook

An Edinburgh based chef has made the final of one of the industry’s most acclaimed chef competitions in the UK.

Max Davies who works in the capital’s Aizle restaurant on Charlotte Square is competing to the win the Roux Scholarship.

Chaired by cooking legends Alain and Michel Roux, the contest showcases some the best talent around the UK.

Winners are offered the opportunity to train under a Michelin star chef at any restaurant around the world.

Speaking to STV News, Max, 25, said that he was ‘deeply thrilled’ to be in the Roux Scholarship this year.

He added: “Some great chefs have won it from Sat Bains to the first chef who ever won, Andrew Fairlie, who has two Michelin start restaurants in Gleneagles.

“It really puts your career in the right path that opens a lot of doors for you.”

Max will compete in the regional final in Birmingham on Thursday, March 9, and is the only Scotland based finalist.

He will take on 18 other contestants selected from hotels, pubs, private member’s clubs, and contract catering establishments across the UK.

The competition is judged by the likes of Angela Hartnett and James Martin, with candidates required to cook a meal made from striploin of dry-aged beef, a beef offal ingredient and Belgian chicory.

Max has been working round the clock to perfect his dishes, even coming in to Aizle on his days off to practice. Head chef and owner Stuart Ralston has been impressed with his dedication.

Ralston told STV News: “It’s hard for someone who already works a hard job to come in on his days off and time off and do this by himself.

“He’s here almost every day so I admire someone who takes care and that sort of interest in their career.”