Who is chef Kristin Reagon on Great British Menu 2026?
As Great British Menu 2026 continues on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer, we find out more about chef Kristin Reagon, who is competing in the Northern Ireland heat.
Originally from South Africa, Kristin Reagon is head chef at Lasair, the fine dining restaurant at Finn Lough Resort in Co. Fermanagh. Since joining the restaurant, she has led an all-female kitchen team, creating menus that combine local produce with her love of cooking over coals.
Early career and cooking background
Kristin was originally preparing to study chemical engineering before a college cooking competition changed her direction and inspired her to pursue a career in food. She went on to win a full scholarship to train at the Sense of Taste Chef School in Cape Town, giving her the platform to begin her professional journey in the kitchen.
From there, she built experience in a number of respected roles, including time at The Pot Luck Club, an internship in the United States, and a position at The Greenhouse under head chef Farrel Hirsch, now head chef at Michelin-starred Morston Hall with Phil Kearsey.
During that period, she also placed third in a national inter-hotel competition.
From South Africa to Finn Lough
After relocating to Northern Ireland in 2021, Kristin became instrumental in establishing Lasair at Finn Lough. The restaurant has developed a distinct identity, shaped by local ingredients, live-fire cooking and a thoughtful fine-dining approach.
Her South African heritage continues to influence her food, particularly in her use of open-fire and braai techniques. At Lasair, she combines those influences with the produce of Northern Ireland, creating dishes that feel personal, expressive and rooted in place.
Recognition and competition pedigree
Kristin was also a UK finalist in the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy, an achievement that helped strengthen both her confidence and her professional network. That recognition underlined her growing reputation and placed her among a group of emerging chefs making a mark on the industry.
With a clear style of her own and experience leading a kitchen, she heads into Great British Menu with a strong combination of technical ability, personal identity and competitive experience.
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Kristin Reagon on Great British Menu 2026
In Great British Menu 2026, Kristin represents Northern Ireland, competing against Lawrence Barrow, Callum Irwin and Marion Lancial for a place in finals week.
Due to TV scheduling changes, Great British Menu this week airs on Wednesday (6.30pm), Thursday and Friday (both 7pm).
Jean Delport and Sally Abé, who both cooked at the 2025 banquet, are the veteran judges for the Northern Ireland heat.
Kristin’s menu for the competition celebrates Northern Ireland women in the film industry.
With a style shaped by South African fire cooking, Northern Irish produce and a growing reputation in the UK, she will be aiming to make a strong impression in this year’s heat.
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