Since 1902, International Salon Culinaire has provided an opportunity for chefs from the UK and around the world to put their creativity to the test and demonstrate their skills in front of panels of industry leading chefs.

Steve Munkley, salon director, said: “The demand for skilled chefs has never been higher, and it’s vital that we continue to attract and nurture new talent. HRC and International Salon Culinaire give our industry the chance to come together, showcase what we do best, and inspire others to be part of this incredible profession.

“To everyone competing this year: embrace the challenge, enjoy the experience, and take every opportunity to learn and grow. I hope International Salon Culinaire gives you the confidence and motivation to push your skills even further.”

The 2026 line-up features the return of several popular competitions alongside new and refreshed challenges designed to test skill, creativity, and purpose. The Tilda Chef Team of the Year 2026 will focus on Food as Fuel, tasking chefs with creating nutrient-rich dishes designed to power elite athletes.

The Craft Guild of Chefs National Chef Team of the Year also returns for 2026, bringing together teams from across the country to compete for one of the industry’s most respected titles. The Association of Pastry Chefs Dessert of the Year competition will return and there will be a Valrhona Live Tea Pastry Challenge.

The Chairs of Judges for 2026 are David Mulcahy, culinary consultant and vice president of the Craft Guild of Chefs; Lesley Herbert, author and college lecturer; Mark Hill MBE, executive chef for the House of Commons; and Stephen Scuffell, vice president of the Craft Guild of Chefs.

Nick Vadis, culinary director at headline sponsor Compass Group UK & Ireland and chef ambassador to the NHS Supply Chain, says: “I am a big fan of competitions and International Salon Culinaire is a leading platform for our chefs to show their skills, learn and connect with others.

“I always enjoy seeing our chefs at all levels take part and watching them thrive in this environment. We are all looking forward to the competition and would encourage others to take part, so that we can really show off what our industry has to offer.”