Who is chef Daniel Heffy on Great British Menu 2026?

With Great British Menu 2026 starting this week on BBC Two, we find out more about chef Daniel Heffy, who is competing in the North West heat.

Daniel is executive chef at NORD in Liverpool, a restaurant he launched in 2023 in partnership with GSG Hospitality. His career spans the UK and Scandinavia, combining Northern produce with international fine dining experience.

Born and raised in Liverpool, Daniel began his culinary journey at 16 while working on HMS Mounts Bay and HMS Iron Duke as part of the Sea Cadets. The early exposure to structured kitchen environments helped lay the foundations for his professional career.

Training and early career in Liverpool

After completing a culinary course at college, Daniel trained under Wirral-based chef Paul Askew. During this period, he developed an understanding of how to combine local produce with fine dining technique, shaping his approach to modern British cooking.

He went on to establish several of Liverpool’s notable food ventures. He worked on The Art School Restaurant alongside Paul Askew, founded the cult Secret Diners Club supper club, and ran the popular Buyers Club, contributing to the city’s growing independent dining scene.

These ventures positioned him as part of a new generation of Liverpool chefs redefining the region’s food culture.

Scandinavian experience and Michelin success

In 2017, Daniel moved to Stockholm to work at Frantzén, one of the world’s most acclaimed three-Michelin-starred restaurants. The experience exposed him to a highly refined, technique-driven style of cooking and the operational precision required at the highest international level.

He later joined Nordic restaurant Adam/Albin as head chef, helping the restaurant secure its Michelin star. The period in Scandinavia further shaped his focus on seasonality, clarity of flavour and respect for ingredient provenance.

Launching NORD in Liverpool

Daniel returned to Liverpool to launch NORD in 2023. Created in partnership with GSG Hospitality, the restaurant reflects his experiences across the UK and Scandinavia.

NORD celebrates Northern heritage and hospitality, sourcing ingredients from local suppliers and championing seasonal produce. The concept blends contemporary Scandinavian influences with British identity, delivering a modern interpretation of northern dining.

As executive chef, Daniel leads the kitchen with a focus on quality sourcing, refined technique and regional storytelling.