About us
It all began with a single goal: to unite, celebrate, and elevate the city’s culinary talent. While Portsmouth has long been home to passionate chefs, independent restaurants, and skilled producers, there wasn’t a dedicated platform where professionals could connect, share knowledge, and promote excellence together.
Built by chefs, for chefs, the Association bridges this gap. It’s not a restaurant group, not a catering business — it’s a community and professional network. Here, Michelin-trained chefs rub shoulders with independent cooks, students learn from industry veterans, and local producers showcase their finest ingredients to the people who can make them shine.
Our passion
At the Portsmouth Culinary Association, what we’re most proud of is the community we’ve built. We’ve created a space where chefs, producers, students, and hospitality professionals can connect, learn, and grow together, fostering collaboration across the city’s food scene. Every member, every event, and every initiative reflects our commitment to excellence, authenticity, and local pride.
We’re proud to see Michelin-trained chefs mentoring emerging talent, local producers gaining recognition, and the city’s culinary reputation growing stronger year by year. The Association is a living, thriving network that puts people and passion at its heart.
Mission & Vision
Mission
To unite, support, and elevate Portsmouth’s culinary community by providing a platform for chefs, producers, hospitality professionals, and students to connect, collaborate, and celebrate excellence.
Vision
To position Portsmouth as a leading culinary destination in the UK, known for innovation, local pride, sustainability, and a vibrant community that nurtures talent at every level.
Values
Professionalism – We uphold the highest standards of culinary craft and hospitality, providing members with the tools, mentorship, and opportunities to thrive.
Inclusivity – Everyone has a seat at our table. From Michelin-trained chefs to students and small local producers, the Association fosters collaboration across all levels of the industry.
Local Pride – Portsmouth is at the heart of everything we do. We champion local ingredients, heritage, and talent, ensuring the city’s food culture is celebrated and preserved.
Sustainability – We promote responsible sourcing, eco-conscious practices, and long-term strategies that benefit our members, the environment, and the community.
Founding Team / Committee Profiles
Chef Samuel Mabe – Chair & Founder
Chef Samuel Mabe is the visionary behind the Portsmouth Culinary Association (PCA), serving as its Chair & Founder and Culinary Director. With over a decade of hands-on experience in professional kitchens, Samuel blends classical training, creative flair, and leadership to bring restaurant-quality dining and culinary education into homes, venues, and professional kitchens alike.
A graduate of South Downs College with a Level 3 Diploma in Professional Cookery, his foundations in classical cuisine were built under the mentorship of celebrated chefs such as Alex Aitken (The Jetty, Christchurch) and Sarah King, whose global culinary influence spans New York, Dubai, and London.
Through the PCA, Samuel aims to raise the standard of food, service, and chef development across the South Coast, fostering a vibrant culinary community in Portsmouth.
Open Committee Positions
The Portsmouth Culinary Association is looking for passionate professionals to join its founding committee and help shape Portsmouth’s culinary future. All positions are currently open:
1. Head of Events & Training – Plan and run workshops, masterclasses, and networking events for chefs and hospitality professionals.
2. Community & Partnerships Lead – Build relationships with local producers, venues, and educational institutions to strengthen PCA’s presence.
3. Membership & Operations Coordinator – Manage memberships, engagement programs, and day-to-day operations.
4. Treasurer / Finance Lead – Oversee budgets, sponsorships, and financial planning.
5. Marketing & Communications Lead – Manage PCA’s digital presence, PR, social media, newsletters, and communications.
6. Education & Training Officer – Develop programs for apprenticeships, mentorships, and professional development.
7. Community Outreach & Sustainability Lead – Lead local engagement initiatives, sustainability programs, and public-facing events.
8. Membership & Engagement Officer – Support recruitment, retention, and member engagement.
9. Partnerships & Sponsorship Lead – Secure sponsorships, manage collaborations, and build strategic industry partnerships.
Interested in joining the PCA committee and shaping Portsmouth’s culinary scene?
Please email: info@portsmouthculinaryassociation.com with your CV and a brief statement about why you’d like to get involved.