Association Culinaire Française promoting French culinary arts in the UK

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The ACF in Scotland - The Celtic Connection

Ever since the beginning of the Association Culinaire Francaise there have been members in Scotland . The Cultural ties between Scotland and France have always been strong, dating back to 1295 and the Auld Alliance. There are many French words to be found in the old Scots dialect and they are still in use today.

The Old Inn at Gairloch, Chef: Chris Bentley, Maitre Escoffier and ACF member

Back in the days of the great railway hotels many young Scotts chefs found themselves in the great London hotels and restaurants. These establishments followed the practices put in place by the Great Master Chef Auguste Escoffier, and it was with great enthusiasm that boys from Scotland embraced a familiar culture and joined the Association.

It was not uncommon during the summer months for kitchen brigades from London to move to hotels in Scotland such as Gleneagles, Balmoral Edinburgh and the famous Malmaison restaurant in Glasgow. A serious French connection.

ACF Scotland members Eric Avinier and Bill Kendrew

Many senior association members in Scotland talk of the French chefs they worked with and speak with great affection of the PM club in Soho, where they could go in the afternoon to relax and meet their friends.

Now in Scotland there is a new enthusiasm for the Association. Our members are here to guide and encourage new talent. By working with colleges and industry we are following in the traditions of our founders.