Where is the Toque?

[Mike]

There are many programmes on the TV about cooking,
Master Chef Professional, the Great British Menu, to name
two of the many that have been shown recently, there are
also many "TV Chefs", who only seem to do lovely food
programmes.

BUT, none of them wear the traditional "Toque", or traditional
Chef's Hat, or any hat for that matter, I just watched one such
show and the winner looked as if he hadn't washed his hair in
ages, surely the hat is to stop things falling from the cook's head
into the food.

Is this only on the TV and the real Chefs in restaurants, still wear
them?

Mike.

 

[hollydolly]

here's a picture of the Savoy kitchen

 

[NorthernLight]

I thought the toque was to regulate the temperature of the head in a hot kitchen. Presumably, modern kitchens don't get that hot.

 

[hollydolly]

Raymond Blanc cookery school... no hats.

 

[oldlongwalker]

I did 20 years in restaurants and hotels. All the cooks wear baker caps. The only time toques are worn is during service at a buffet or a banquet when you are in front of the public.