Village Kitchen Caterers History

Village Kitchen Caterers was founded in 1980 by Peter White & his wife Bernadette.

Peter began his career & training at Portsmouth Catering College in 1966 where he went on to win a place on an advanced training course mentored by the London restaurant training board. Following his success he was persuaded to enter the ‘Salon Culinar’ competition where he became the first ever newcomer chef to win 4 gold awards.

On completing his training in 1971 Peter moved to London to join some of the finest restaurants – Le Caprice, Empress, The Ivy, L’Escargo, Mirabelle, L’Ecu de France, Maison Prunier. Here he spent several years perfecting his French culinary skills before being head hunted to set-up and run a series of restaurants in Chester, Liverpool, Worplesdon, Godalming & Witley.

In 1980 after many successful years as a restaurant chef Peter with the help of his wife, Bernadette decided to set-up their own outside catering company providing fine food to distinguished clients. Based on Witley Park Estate, the family run company enjoyed many years running events for a vast range of clients to include the royal family as well as stars & personalities from film, music, television, radio & sport.

Following increasing interest in his cooking from local passers by to the estate who would try to sample some of the food, Peter & Bernadette along with the help of their four children decided to open a small delicatessen shop in Grayshott in 1994. The aim was to provide truly healthy, wholesome, additive free, delicious food for everyday eating.

Today the busy shop continues to grow from strength to strength with events and outside catering still remaining an important part of this family run business. The family are also proud to work with a team of enthusiastic and friendly staff including Beth Gemson, our talented patisserie chef & Daniel Naef who has trained & worked with the Village Kitchen for over ten years. All share a passion for making really great food, driven by the belief that good food should be accessible & enjoyable for everyone.