Who is chef Vince Smith on Great British Menu 2026?
As we come towards the end of the regional stages of Great British Menu 2026, we find out more about chef Vince Smith, who is representing London and the South East.
Last year, Jean Delport cooked for the region and took two dishes through to the banquet, setting a high bar for this year’s chefs.
Vince Smith returns to the competition eager to show his growth and ambition after previously competing in series 19.
Born in London and from a mixed Caribbean and Indian heritage background, Vince grew up surrounded by a wide range of culinary influences that continue to shape his cooking today.
Early career and cooking background
Vince knew from a young age that he wanted to become a chef. He went on to study Culinary Arts at Thames Valley University, now the University of West London, before beginning his career in some of London’s best kitchens.
Those experiences helped him refine his technique and broaden his culinary perspective. Growing up with Caribbean and Indian influences, while training in professional London kitchens, gave Vince a strong foundation and a wide-ranging view of flavour, culture and creativity.
Current role and cooking style
Vince now works as a development chef, delivering bespoke events and fine dining across a 100-site London-based catering company. That role demands flexibility, technical precision and the ability to create high-level food across a wide range of settings.
His cooking reflects both his professional discipline and his creative instinct. With a background shaped by London’s diversity and a return to the competition under his belt, Vince brings a style that combines storytelling, personality and strong technical foundations.
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Vince Smith on Great British Menu 2026
In Great British Menu 2026, Vince represents London and the South East, competing against Josh Hughes, Dana Choi and Abbie Hendren for a place in finals week.
Aktar Islam, chef patron of the two-Michelin-starred Birmingham restaurant Opheem, is the veteran judge for the London and South East region.
Vince’s menu celebrates films including Paddington and Bend It Like Beckham, giving him the chance to showcase both his creativity and his storytelling.
Returning to the competition with more experience and a clear desire to show how far he has come, Vince will be aiming to make a strong impression in the final stretch of the regional stages.
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