Kraft Heinz is bringing back its nationwide culinary competition, Masters of the Menu, for a second year, following a successful 2025 launch.
• Enhanced prizes, with the winner receiving £5,000 in cash
• An expanded judging panel, including 2025 competition winner, Stefan Sewell
• An exciting new partnership with CORD by Le Cordon Bleu
Once again partnering with 2018 Great British Menu winner James Cochran and the Craft Guild of Chefs, the competition aims to spotlight the UK’s most exciting independent culinary talent, offering a platform to elevate both skills and business potential.
Designed specifically for chefs working in independent operations, Masters of the Menu will see five finalists take part in an exclusive two-round cook-off held at CORD by Le Cordon Bleu, following a period of mentorship from Cochran and other industry professionals. The initiative is built to nurture not only culinary creativity, but also commercial and operational expertise.
Commenting on the return of the competition, Cochran said: “Masters of the Menu is all about giving independent chefs a platform to really showcase what they can do. I’ve been in their shoes, building something from the ground up, so I know how important that support, mentorship and visibility can be. It’s not just about creating great dishes, it’s about helping chefs grow sustainable businesses and back themselves in a tough industry.”
This year’s competition raises the stakes, with an enhanced prize package designed to deliver meaningful, long-term value to operators. The 2026 winner will receive:
• £5,000 cash prize
• PR support to boost their professional profile
• The unique opportunity to co-host an exclusive supper club with James Cochran
• All entrants will also be entered into a prize draw to win £100 cash. All entrants will be entered into a prize draw to win £100
Stronger industry backing
The 2026 edition introduces a strengthened judging panel, bringing together expertise from across the foodservice sector.
Joining Cochran are Stefan Sewell – 2025 Masters of the Menu champion; Ian Nottage – Head of Food Development at Fresh Direct; John Feeney – Culinary & Innovation Director at Griffith Foods; and Martin Eshelby – Culinary Director at Bidfood.
Sewell’s return as a judge brings a unique full-circle perspective, having experienced the competition first-hand. His experience and expertise, combined with support from Cochran and the Kraft Heinz development chefs, anchors the competitions mission statement of providing support to independent chefs across the foodservice industry.
Tom Franklin, UK and Ireland Kraft Heinz Away from Home Director, said: “At its core, Masters of the Menu is about championing the incredible talent within the UK’s independent foodservice sector. After seeing the impact the competition had in its first year, we’re proud to bring it back bigger and better for 2026.
“By increasing the prize offering and strengthening our judging panel, we’re ensuring that participants gain not just recognition, but real, tangible support to help grow their businesses.”
James Cochran added: “Last year showed just how much talent exists across independent kitchens in the UK. Being part of Masters of the Menu again is a real honour, especially with the strong line-up of judges involved.
“Mentorship is something that’s always been important to me, and this competition is a brilliant way to pass on knowledge, build confidence and help chefs take that next step in their careers.”
Kraft Heinz has rich legacy, providing Brits with products they love since 1886, when the Heinz Tomato Ketchup was first sold in London. With 76% of consumers stating that Heinz Tomato Ketchup is of better quality than other brands, Kraft Heinz is committed to sharing this brand equity to support independent operators with a competition that offers tangible value.
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How to enter
To enter, chefs must develop and submit a recipe using one or more Heinz core products. Shortlisted entrants will be invited to compete with their dish in the first round of the final cook-off.
The competition is open to chefs aged 18 or over, currently working for independent operators in the United Kingdom (defined as businesses with four or fewer locations).
Entries open on 20th May and close on 31st August 2026.
For full details on entry requirements and how to apply, visit:
