Three of the finalists have been seeded for their involvement in some of the UK’s most prestigious culinary titles for young chefs, whilst others had to impress the judges in a semi-final round. As entry to this event is by invite-only, all the candidates had been recognised for their work in competitions or put forward by a judge who has seen their impressive talent in the kitchen.
The finalists for this year are:
- Benjamin Mabley, senior chef de partie, Hartwell House Hotel & Spa
- Georgia Abernethy, pastry chef, Posh Nosh Ireland
- Jonny Smith, junior sous chef, Gravetye Manor
- Joshua Singer, senior chef de partie, Scott’s, Richmond
- Maciej Pisarek, demi chef de partie, The Savoy Hotel
- Miltan Masha, senior sous chef, Monarch Theatre
- Nathan Johnson, junior sous chef, Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa
- Nicole Watt, ABCS, Royal Navy, HMS Defender
- Sam Dixon, demi chef de partie, Northcote
- Billy Etheridge, demi chef de partie, Le Manoir Aux Quat'Saisons
Two chefs have also been named as reserves for the final, George Baldwin-Edie and Harry Donnelly.
Chair of judges for YNCOTY, Lisa Goodwin-Allen said: “Overall, the standard of entries was really impressive. You could really see the personalities of the chefs coming through their menus and how much they had pushed themselves to take a top spot.
“As well as the balance and flavours of menus, we consider how easy it will be for the chefs to deliver their dishes in a different kitchen and within the time constraints. All the finalists have created something that looks both achievable and delicious and I can’t wait to taste these dishes.”
The finalists will attend a mentor day on Wednesday 6th September at the Waitrose Food Innovation Studio. With a series of masterclasses, skills challenges and a panel discussion, alongside the finalists of National Chef of the Year, it’s set to be an insightful day with the chance to connect with sponsors, judges and fellow finalists.