Masters of the Menu will see five finalists take part in an exclusive two-round cook-off held at CORD by Le Cordon Bleu, following a period of mentorship from Cochran and other industry professionals. The initiative is built to nurture not only culinary creativity, but also commercial and operational expertise.

To enter, chefs must develop and submit a recipe using one or more Heinz core products. Shortlisted entrants will be invited to compete with their dish in the first round of the final cook-off. Entries are now open and will close on 31st August 2026.

The competition is open to chefs aged 18 or over, currently working for independent operators in the United Kingdom (defined as businesses with four or fewer locations).

This year’s competition raises the stakes, with an enhanced prize package designed to deliver meaningful, long-term value to operators. The 2026 winner will receive:

• £5,000 cash prize
• PR support to boost their professional profile
• The unique opportunity to co-host an exclusive supper club with James Cochran
• All entrants will also be entered into a prize draw to win £100 cash.

Commenting on the return of the competition, Cochran said: “Masters of the Menu is all about giving independent chefs a platform to really showcase what they can do.

“I’ve been in their shoes, building something from the ground up, so I know how important that support, mentorship and visibility can be. It’s not just about creating great dishes, it’s about helping chefs grow sustainable businesses and back themselves in a tough industry.”

The 2026 edition introduces a strengthened judging panel, bringing together expertise from across the foodservice sector. Joining Cochran is Stefan Sewell – 2025 Masters of the Menu champion.

Sewell’s return as a judge brings a unique full-circle perspective, having experienced the competition first-hand. His experience and expertise, combined with support from Cochran and the Kraft Heinz development chefs, anchors the competitions mission statement of providing support to independent chefs across the foodservice industry.

The other judges include Ian Nottage – head of food development at Fresh Direct; John Feeney – culinary & innovation director at Griffith Foods and Martin Eshelby – culinary director at Bidfood.

Tom Franklin, UK and Ireland Kraft Heinz away from home director, added: “At its core, Masters of the Menu is about championing the incredible talent within the UK’s independent foodservice sector.

“After seeing the impact the competition had in its first year, we’re proud to bring it back bigger and better for 2026. By increasing the prize offering and strengthening our judging panel, we’re ensuring that participants gain not just recognition, but real, tangible support to help grow their businesses.”

For full details on entry requirements and how to apply, visit: https://www.kraftheinzawayfromhome.com/en-GB/mastersofthemenu.