National Chef of the Year unveils world-class judging panel for this year’s final
The Craft Guild of Chefs has revealed an exceptional line-up of judges for this year’s National Chef of the Year (NCOTY) final, bringing together some of the most respected names in British and international gastronomy.
Widely regarded as the UK’s most prestigious culinary competition, NCOTY continues to attract the very best talent, and this year’s judging panel reflects the competition’s reputation.
Finalists will cook in front of a collection of Michelin-starred chefs, award-winning pastry experts, celebrated restaurateurs and former NCOTY champions who collectively represent the highest levels of culinary excellence.
Who will be judging?
Leading the line-up are some of the UK’s most influential chefs, including Mark Birchall, Phil Howard, Matt Abé, Aktar Islam, Rafa Cagali, Tony Parkin, Adam Smith, Paul Foster and Gary Jones. Flying the flag as former NCOTY winners will be Luke Selby, Orry Shand and Hayden Groves, all of whom have experienced first-hand the pressure and prestige of competing for the title.
The pastry judging panel is equally impressive, led by internationally renowned pastry consultant Cherish Finden, Emmanuel Bonneau of Mandarin Oriental, Circle Wong of L’Ecole Valrhona and Jean Francois Favy from Le Cordon Bleu London.
A rigorous judging process
Competition director, David Mulcahy, commented: “This year’s judging panel represents an exceptional breadth of knowledge and experience, ensuring finalists are assessed by some of the most respected figures in the industry. As the competition prepares for another highly anticipated final, the calibre of this year’s judges further reinforces why National Chef of the Year remains the ultimate test for chefs striving to be recognised among the very best in the profession. I’d like to personally thank every judge for giving up their time to support these chefs. Having this opportunity to talk to some of their culinary idols whilst they cook just adds to the overall experience of being a finalist.”
You can follow some of the action from this year’s National Chef of the Year final via the Craft Guild of Chefs Instagram account at @craftguildofchefs.
