Kids in the kitchen team up with a top chef to create new opportunities.

Commercial Street in Leith is a striking example of two contrasting worlds existing side by side. On one side, a Michelin-starred restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience, while across the street, the Citadel Youth Centre struggles to meet growing demand in an area affected by high child poverty rates. Despite these differences, both are joining forces for a unique community project.

Renowned chef Tom Kitchin is mentoring young people from the Citadel to organize an exclusive fundraising lunch benefiting the centre and other childrens initiatives. Some participants will gain hands-on experience in the kitchen, exploring high-end ingredients and learning to prepare dishes theyve never encountered before.

Chef Tom emphasizes the project's community impact: "What excites me is involving the kids directly. They apply for a role, attend an interview, show up for trials, and then progress through a full learning journey, from front-of-house to back-of-house tasks, culminating in a gala dinner that promises to be truly exceptional."

The event is scheduled for Sunday, December 7, and the young trainees have been preparing for their individual responsibilities. In the kitchen, they will practice cooking fine-dining dishes with ingredients like scallops and hedgehog mushrooms. Meanwhile, the front-of-house team is learning precision in table setup and service skills, including balancing multiple plates.

Kayla Travers, 20, part of the waiting staff, shares her excitement: "This gives me a chance to understand every detail of a professional setting. I want to build confidence, and speaking to guests during the dinner will be a perfect opportunity to do that."

The trainees are regular attendees of the Citadel Youth Centre, which has served Leiths young people for over 40 years. Rudi Henderson, 19, explains what the centre means to him: "The Citadel helps bridge generations and offers a safe space to socialise. Its like a second home for many."

However, like many similar organisations, the Citadel faces financial challenges due to tighter budgets and rising demand. Manager Willy Barr highlights the importance of the collaboration: "Having a neighbouring partner who supports our fundraising efforts is invaluable. We welcome young people from all backgrounds and provide encouragement, guidance, and support through their challenges."

Although the Citadel has previously partnered with Chef Tom for charity dinners, this is the first time the event will be hosted in his restaurant. With limited time left to perfect their skills, the young trainees are fully focused on the upcoming gala.

Chef Tom concludes with the broader purpose of the project: "I hope this collaboration raises awareness of the struggles in our community and highlights the Citadel as a place of support. More importantly, I want the young people involved to feel motivated and inspired."

Author: Sophia Brooks