Aven restaurant collaboration with MasterChef – The Professionals Champion sells out within hours

Preston’s acclaimed fine dining establishment, Aven Restaurant, is thrilled to announce that its upcoming collaboration with Daniel Merriman, the newly crowned winner of MasterChef: The Professionals 2024, has sold out within hours of release. The event, which was announced on Friday, December 13th—just a day after Merriman’s victory—saw initial seating times filled within minutes, prompting the addition of further dates that also sold out rapidly.

Daniel Merriman expressed his gratitude, stating: “I feel so blessed that bookings for the collaboration sold out as quickly as they did. I’m really looking forward to going over to Aven and working with a group of Lancashire lads cooking together and bouncing ideas off each other.”

Oli Martin, Chef Director of Aven and a fellow MasterChef: The Professionals finalist, shared his enthusiasm: “We’re absolutely buzzing to have Dan join us. I remember the excitement of getting back into the kitchen after my time on the show, eager to experiment with new ideas and techniques and collaborate with new people. Dan’s food looks incredible, and I can’t wait to try it. We’re having some really exciting times at Aven right now. It’s going to be fantastic to have him over and show him what we’re all about.”

Aven Restaurant, situated near Winckley Square in Preston, is renowned for its innovative approach to fine dining, emphasising local produce and modern British cuisine. Co-owned by Oli Martin and Alex Blamire, with Head Chef Sean Wrest, Aven has garnered national attention, including commendations from esteemed food critic Giles Coren, who praised the establishment for its “proper northern hospitality” and exceptional culinary offerings.

Daniel Merriman, originally from Worcestershire and now residing in Lancashire, boasts over 12 years of culinary experience. Prior to his MasterChef victory, he served as Senior Sous Chef at The Black Bull Inn in Lancashire and has worked at multiple Michelin-starred establishments, including Northcote, Plas Bodegroes, and Cottage in the Wood. Merriman’s passion for cooking and innovative techniques have solidified his reputation as one of the UK’s rising culinary stars.

Due to the overwhelming demand, all reservations for this exclusive event have been filled. For those who were unable to secure a table, Aven Restaurant encourages patrons to stay tuned for future events and collaborations.

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Oli Martin is a Taste Lancashire Ambassador, supporting the work of Marketing Lancashire to raise awareness of local food and drink producers through their Taste Lancashire campaigns and activities. www.visitlancashire.com/Taste