Michelin Magic at Cornerstone: £250,000 Raised at Chefs' Night Out 2025
On Saturday 29th March 2025 , the grand halls of Cornerstone Cardiff were transformed into something extraordinary: a Michelin-level dining experience, all in aid of a fantastic charity.
Practically buzzing with generosity, energy, and the signs of a great night incoming(!), guests were treated to an unforgettable evening at Chefs’ Night Out, where fine food met a finer cause, raising a remarkable £250,000 in support of Ty Hafan, the children’s hospice providing vital care and support to families across Wales.
Now in its 14th year, Chefs’ Night Out was originally founded in 2010 by David Loosemore, Managing Director of Portabella, and Huw Edwards, Head of Auctions and Auctioneer at Seel & Co. What began as a one-off charity dinner has evolved into a cherished date in the culinary calendar - and this year’s event was the most successful to date.
Four courses, fourteen chefs, one big surprise...
The magic of Chefs’ Night Out lies in the mystery... Guests arrive not knowing who will cook for them, only that they’re in the hands of some of the finest chefs in the UK. This year’s roster included stars from Michelin-rated establishments like Gorse, Lucknam Park, and The River Café. Culinary legend Roger Jones brought his signature flair, while Tom Simmons, Owen Morgan of Bar 44, and returning favourite Stephen Terry added firepower - the latter teaming up with rising star Sian Owen for a standout table.
The evening saw Cornerstone operating at full elegance. Under the leadership of our director Spiro, the venue’s fine dining team - including Callum Gavin, Jake Camilleri, and Alex Borg - delivered a seamless experience. Service was run with polish and precision under the watchful eyes of Spiro and his Deputy, Karl Jones.
The night in full swing ↓
Community generosity was on full display
While the food dazzled, the true stars of the evening were the guests, whose generosity raised a quarter of a million pounds for Ty Hafan. The live auction, led by comedian Brian Conley, saw diners bidding for a once-in-a-lifetime prize: having their evening’s chef recreate the meal in their own home.
“It was one of those nights where you really feel the spirit of the room,” said Spiro. “You could see that people weren’t just there to enjoy a great meal - they came to give back. That’s what makes this event special.”
Cornerstone’s hosting of the event is part of a wider vision set out when the venue opened in 2016 - to be more than just an events space, but a place with heart and community at its core.
“My brief when we opened Cornerstone was to create a venue that would serve Cardiff not just as a business hub, but as a centre for community and charity,” said Spiro. “This event is proof of that. Over the years, we’ve helped raise hundreds of thousands for causes including City Hospice, Noah’s Ark, and now, an incredible £250,000 for Ty Hafan. That’s something we’re proud of - but it’s only possible because people show up and give.”
Chefs working hard in the kitchen ↓
The legacy of Chefs’ Night Out
Since its inception, Chefs’ Night Out has built a legacy of combining world-class food with world-changing fundraising. And while the talent in the kitchen continues to shine, the heart of the event remains the same - a shared commitment to making a difference.
Here’s to the guests, the chefs, the servers, and every hand that played a part in this spectacular evening. The plates may be cleared, but the impact will be felt for a long time to come! Thank you!
