About the Competition
Our Goal
Our Goal is to Create Opportunity
Since our first Balmoral Hotel Master*Chef events in 2017, we have been committed to recognising upcoming chefs and rewarding them for their craft.
Now, in 2026, we have decided to broaden our search to the island of Ireland to find local talent on a national scale.
We will be arranging a talent search of the country to take part in Ireland’s Next Top Chef and we need entrants who share our same ethos to create opportunities and develop talent within Ireland’s hospitality industry.
Our History
The competition originated back in 2017 under the Balmoral Hotel Professional Master*Chef banner - which was an event held during the Féile an Phobail celebrations. It continued in 2018 and 2019 and then, like many other events, was put on hiatus during the COVID pandemic.
In 2023, the event returned with a new name, new look and new ambition- to find Ireland's Next Top Chef. The competition is back in 2026 for its fourth consecutive year, hotter than ever and ready to crown the next culinary star.
2026 Prizes
The winner will receive an invitation to cook and train under the supervision of a leading culinary team at the prestigious 2 Michelin Star restaurant: Dinner by Heston Blumenthal (London).
All travel and accommodation (5 nights) expenses will also be covered. This is in addition to an amazing selection of prizes courtesy of our sponsors, including Limited Edition Chef Apron, Service Works London apparel and prestigious Katto Knife products - plus the coveted Ireland’s Next Top Chef trophy!
2026 Judges
Chef Danni Barry, one of the few female chefs on the island to hold a Michelin star, bringing precision, creativity and a deep understanding of modern Irish cuisine at the highest level.
Joris Minne, a trusted voice in the industry, offers a sharp critical eye and a deep knowledge of what defines truly outstanding dining experiences across Ireland.
Chef James Southern, senior sous chef at the two-Michelin-starred Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, brings world-class technical skill and a refined approach shaped by one of the most innovative kitchens in the world.
