The team, led by Simon Toye, group development chef, defeated teams from Sodexo, Aramark and Katy’s Kitchen after creating a three course meal in two hours with a budget of €12.50 (£10.83) for six covers.

Managing director at Mount Charles, Cathal Geoghegan said: “We’re thrilled to have won top prize in contract catering at what is undoubtedly Ireland’s biggest and most prominent hospitality showcase event, run by the Irish Foodservice Suppliers Alliance.

“We came third at CATEX in 2015 and very much came to this year’s event with our eye on gold.  It was a huge team effort with a lot of preparation involved so it’s gratifying that it all paid off, with the team commended for both the innovation and quality of the dishes as well as the high standard of food service.

The winning menu featured a main course of sirloin, braised short rib with Jerusalem artichoke, burnt onion, chard and onion powder.

Mount Charles provides catering services to Ulster University, Titanic Belfast and FOLD Housing Association.