UK Competitors 2026

Congratulations to all the incredible chefs who competed in the 2026 UK Heats!

This year’s competition served up more than just fierce talent, it delivered Michelin-star-worthy creations that left our judges in awe and agonising over every decision. The standard was sky-high, the flavours unforgettable, and the passion undeniable. Scroll down to discover the results from the UK Heats Competition day:

Winner - Madelaine Parr
Chef de partie - Oeuf

Madelaine currently works at Oeuf where she continues to develop her skills and confidence in the kitchen. She began her career at a small hotel near her hometown, which sparked her passion for cooking and later studied culinary college from ages 16–18, building on her learning through hands-on experience. Her style is modern British, focused on comforting, flavour-led dishes, with a particular love for fish and butter. She is highly organised and enjoys the satisfaction of a well-executed service. She entered the competition to challenge herself and have fun, with long-term ambitions of running a small home-based pastry business.

Fish and Chip: A refined interpretation of the British classic "Fish and Chips", presented as a canapé featuring a crisp crustade filled with buttery potato mash, topped with seared hake, tartare sauce and pea purée.

Second Place - Chris Willis
Executive Chef, Lexington Catering

Originally from Guernsey, he developed a passion for cooking through the island’s blend of British and continental influences and its abundance of local produce. Since moving to London, he has built a diverse career across restaurants, hotels, private members’ clubs, events and contract catering. Passionate about seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, he combines them with global techniques to create memorable dishes. He believes food brings people together, with collaboration and shared experiences at the heart of hospitality.

Pickled Cornish sardine, smoked confit potato, scallop, sea lettuce, lardo, sherry vinegar

Third Place - Liam Walker
Assistant Food Development Manager, Stonegate

Liam is 37 years old and currently works as Assistant Food Development Manager for Stonegate Group. He has spent over 21 years in kitchens since leaving school, with a career spanning Stoke-on-Trent, the Middle East and back to the UK. His passion for food began at a young age and by 12 he was set on becoming a chef. He has worked in several notable kitchens including Restaurant Six at the Baltic, Truffle in Darlington, and Café Lowrey in Darras Hall. He joined Stonegate with the goal of moving into food development and now oversees their largest format, recently launching a new menu.

Family Tradition: Braised lamb shoulder in a Yorkshire pudding crumb. Topped with carrot puree, lamb jus fluid gel, crispy lamb skin, potato glass and mint caviar