2025 Young National Chef of the Year and National Chef of the Year share similar themes

Within the past year, two outstanding young chefs have been crowned champions in the UK's thriving hospitality sector, showcasing exceptional skill and dedication to their craft, and solidifying their positions as leading figures in the nation's culinary landscape.

Young Talent Takes Centre Stage

Jonny Smith from Gravetye Manor has been officially crowned the winner of the highly coveted Young National Chef of the Year 2025 award, surpassing Rosie Welch from L'Enclume and Keira Carolan from Henrock in a closely contested competition.

The 2025 Young National Chef of the Year prize comes with several valuable advantages such as a pastry training session with Stefan Rose and a learning trip to Norway that will significantly improve Jonny Smith's cooking skills.

Sustainability And Excellence

The events also highlighted the critical role that sustainability plays in modern culinary practice, as both winners showcased their skills in reducing food waste and incorporating locally sourced ingredients into their dishes.

Seeing the focus, dedication and skill from the ten chefs in the kitchen today was incredibly inspiring to watch. Congratulations to Orry who is a very worthy winner.

David Mulcahy

In another notable culinary achievement, Orry Shand from Entier Ltd emerged victorious in the National Chef of the Year 2025 competition, impressing judges with his outstanding menu featuring turbot and Lumina lamb as standout components.

As part of his winning prize, Shand will embark on a prestigious culinary tour with Valrhona, visit the esteemed Champagne region in France, and receive £3,000 to invest in his ongoing culinary growth.

UK Hospitality Sector Boasts Exceptional Talent

The success of these young chefs is a testament to the exceptional talent within the UK hospitality sector, and highlights the importance of recognizing and nurturing emerging culinary stars.