Chef of the Year
TSC Award 2024 CHEF of the year is TIm DELA CRUZ
Tim Dela Cruz, head chef at Smith of Smithfield, was crowned Chef of the Year after beating an exceptional shortlist of Tom Aikens (Muse), James Sommerin (Home at Penarth) and Josh Angus (HIDE).
Since joining the Farringdon restaurant in late 2023, Tim has shaped a menu that celebrates sustainable British produce, wood-fire cooking and bold, flavour-driven dishes, earning an AA rosette along the way.
His past career experience includes roles at Caravan, Bonnie Gull and The Social Company, as well as leading the kitchen at Pig & Palm in the Philippines. Reflecting on his win, Tim said: "I cannot believe it. Tom Aikens is
one of my idols, Josh Angus as well. "I'm up against Michelin-starred chefs and I wouldn't have actually thought I would be nominated in the first place, let alone to be shortlisted and then win, it's amazing. "It's kind of like a validation for what I've been doing in my career. I've been in the game for a long time and it's like the icing on the cake."
Reflecting on the year, Tim said: "This year, 2025, has been amazing. I had my first daughter, after waiting for 10 years. She is my biggest star. "Work-wise, we are anticipating we are going to be very busy for Christmas and come 2026, hopefully I get another AA rosette."
Sponsored by:
The Staff Canteen has always been more than a website—it’s a community, built by and for hospitality. We share the wins, the challenges, the graft, and the inspiration that keeps kitchens alive.
We believe in staying open to everyone, but creating this content takes real resources. If you’ve ever found value here—whether it’s a recipe, an interview, or a laugh when you needed it most—consider giving just £3 to keep it going.
A little from you keeps this space free for all. Let’s keep lifting the industry, together.
Support Us
CONTRIBUTE
Chef of the Year
