NCOTY Programme
The National Chef of the Year (NCOTY) competition is recognised as one of the UK’s most challenging, rigorous and prestigious culinary awards. Designed to spotlight the very best professional chefs, the programme takes competitors on an inspiring, year‑long journey that tests creativity, technical skill and resilience at every stage.
The journey culminates in the highly anticipated live cook-off, where finalists compete side‑by‑side in front of industry-leading judges. This high-energy event is followed by our VIP Awards evening, a glittering celebration attended by top chefs, media, and influential hospitality leaders. It’s where the new National Chef of the Year is crowned. This is an honour that has shaped many careers and inspired the next generation of culinary talent.
Across the year, the NCOTY programme not only identifies outstanding chefs but also supports them, offering visibility, advice and opportunities to push boundaries. It is a true celebration of the creativity, craft and skill that define the UK culinary scene.
key dates for your diary
Online entry
Closing date Tuesday 7th April 2026
Announcement of Semi-finalists
Wednesday 27th May 2026
Following a rigorous blind judging process, we will be announcing our National Chef of the Year semi‑finalists. Each course is assessed independently by judges to ensure fairness, consistency and a truly objective review. Alongside this, our chair of judges, Mark Birchall evaluates every menu as a whole, bringing his expert perspective to the overall balance, creativity and cohesion of each entry.
If you’ve made it through to the next stage, look out for your exclusive NCOTY jacket arriving in the post. It’s always an exciting milestone in the competition.
Live semi-finals
Wednesday 24th June at Sheffield College and Wednesday 1st July at Capital City College
Due to popular demand, the live semi‑finals are back. Chefs progressing to this stage will be able to showcase their creativity, technical skill and interpretation of the brief. This live element gives semi‑finalists the chance to showcase their talent whilst having an additional opportunity to cook for some of the biggest names in the industry.
Semi-finalist event and reveal of finalists
Mid-July – Date t.b.c
Watch this space for more details about this special event coming soon. It will be a fantastic opportunity for all semi‑finalists to come together, celebrate their success and share in the excitement of the next stage. During the event, you’ll also discover who has secured a coveted place in the National Chef of the Year final.
The mentor experience
Tuesday 8th September
The Mentor Experience will take place on Tuesday 8th September. This flagship event is always a highlight of the National Chef of the Year calendar, giving finalists the chance to meet some of the judges, connect with fellow competitors and gain valuable insight from our sponsors. It’s an inspiring experience designed to support, motivate and prepare finalists as they continue their NCOTY journey.
The live final at Le Cordon Bleu
Tuesday 6th October 2026
The final brings together ten exceptional competitors, each battling for the top spot and the honour of being named National Chef of the Year. Held at one of the UK’s most prestigious culinary schools, this is where months of hard work, creativity and determination come together to showcase the best of UK talent.
VIP Awards Event
Tuesday 6th October 2026
Finalists, sponsors and judges will come together to celebrate this year’s top ten at a glittering event that marks one of the highlights of the NCOTY calendar. During the evening, we’ll reveal this year’s top three placings and announce the winner of the prestigious Churchill Best Presentation Award.
