YNCOTY FAQs
Over the years, young chefs entering the Young National Chef of the Year (YNCOTY) competition have asked us a wide range of questions about the process, expectations and what to prepare for at each stage. To make things easier, we’ve brought together the most commonly asked questions to help guide you through your YNCOTY journey. If you can’t find the information you need, simply visit our Contact Us page and send us a message.
How do chefs get selected for Young National Chef of the Year?
Young chefs are selected for the Young National Chef of the Year (YNCOTY) competition through a combination of nominations, competition results and industry recognition. Each year, a number of talented young chefs earn their place by excelling in partner competitions or recognised chef challenges, while others are recommended by respected chefs, mentors or industry bodies. The Craft Guild of Chefs reviews all eligible candidates to ensure they demonstrate strong potential, commitment and the skills needed to thrive in a national competition. Those selected are invited to take part in YNCOTY and begin their journey towards one of the most prestigious young chef titles in the UK.
Can I put myself forward for this competition?
Young chefs cannot directly enter or nominate themselves for the Young National Chef of the Year competition. Instead, places are awarded through a system of qualification and industry recognition. Chefs earn their spot by excelling in partner competitions, being recommended by respected mentors or industry bodies, or standing out through recognised culinary pathways. This approach ensures that every YNCOTY finalist has already demonstrated exceptional promise, commitment and skill before stepping onto the national stage. If you’d like to be considered for future years we recommend you entering one of the seeded competitions or events to gain experience. One of these is the Graduate Awards which has prepared many YNCOTY winners in the past.
When will it open for entries?
Eligible young chefs will be contacted directly over the next few weeks with details on how to take part in this year’s competition. Entries for Young National Chef of the Year officially open on 24th February, and all invited chefs will receive full instructions on how to submit their menu once the entry window is live.
Will there be a live semi-final this year?
Yes. This year’s Young National Chef of the Year competition will include a live semi‑final, giving young chefs the chance to cook under real competition conditions and showcase their skills to the judges. Full details, including dates, briefs and format, will be shared directly with all eligible candidates once entries open.
