How to Enter
The search for Ireland's Next Top Chef starts here
Stage 1 - Online Application Form
The online application is the first step towards participating in Ireland’s Next Top Chef.
First, register your entry with the online registration form. To enter, all chefs must be 16+ years old and must be eligible to work in the UK or ROI.
Successful candidates must also be able to attend and take part in each stage of the competition.
The application form will cover two areas:
1) Hospitality Experience
2)Submission of 3 Course Recipe for Semi Final/Final
Chefs have until 5pm on Friday 13th June 2025 to submit their application forms.
Stage 2 - Knockout Rounds
The applications will be reviewed by our judges and the top 12 entries will make it through to the first knockout round.
The chefs will then battle it out in 2 knockout rounds before the Grand Finale Gala Ball on Thursday 7th August 2025.
The dates for knockout rounds are as follows - chefs will be given time slots to attend i.e. chefs don't have to attend all four dates in the first knockout round, they will be allocated a 2 hour time slot on one of the dates.
First Knockout Round / Quarter Final - 16 Chefs
Dates: Monday 23rd &Tuesday 24th June 2025 (10am - 1pm)
Location: Waterman House Cookery School, Belfast
Format: Mystery Box Cookery Challenge. All ingredients and utensils will be provided for the chefs - chjefs can bring their own knives and equipment if they wish.
The top 6 chefs will make it through to the Semi Final.
Each chef will receive an Ireland's Next Top Chef Goodie Bag for making it to the Quarter Final.
Semi Final - 6 Chefs
Date: Monday 7th July 2025 (10am - 6pm)
Location: Waterman House Cookery School, Belfast
Format: Chefs' first chance to prepare their recipes. Time slot up to 6 hours between the hours of 10am - 6pm. All ingredients and utensils will be provided for the chefs based off their entry forms.
The top 3 chefs will make it through to the Grand Finale.
Each chef will receive a £150 Service Works London voucher for making it to the Semi Final stage.
Grand Finale
Date: Thursday 7th August 2025
Location: Balmoral Hotel, Belfast
The Top 3 chefs from the competition will be invited to take part in the Grand Finale at the Balmoral Hotel, Belfast.
The chefs will prepare their dishes with their efforts broadcast to a live audience of 200 guests at our extravagant Gala Ball.
They will plate and serve to our 3 head judges who will rank the contestants - with the overall winner receiving the Ireland's Next Top Chef trophy, Dinner By Heston Blumenthal Stage plus a premium Katto Knife set and scabbard.
The runners up will each receive a premium Katto Knife set and scabbard.