Australian Professional Chef of the Year
The ultimate pressure test to find Australia’s top culinary talent
Where Australia's hottest chefs compete
Australian Professional Chef of the Year is one of the industry’s toughest and most prestigious competitions, testing chefs’ creativity, skill, and precision under intense time pressure. Cooking live before an audience, competitors must showcase flawless technique and a deep understanding of flavour.
A highlight is the mystery box challenge, where 32 finalists receive a set of ingredients and must prepare four servings each of an entrée and main. Judges score taste, presentation, and execution — rewarding balance, visual appeal, and technical mastery.
Only the most innovative chefs rise to the top, earning national recognition and the coveted title of Chef of the Year.
Applications are now open for the 2026 competition, taking place at the Restaurant & Foodservice Show, ICC Sydney, 25–27 May
2025 Australian Professional Chef of the Year is crowned!
Congratulations to Richmond Rodrigues, Executive Chef at Aanuka Beach House.
- Winner: Richmond Rodrigues, Executive Chef at Aanuka Beach House in Coffs Harbour
- Finalists: Grant Parry from The Star Gold Coast, Antoine Potier from Restaurant Dan Arnold and Sam Smith from The Growers by Ponte
2026 Judges & Hosts
Glenn Flood
MC Global Hospitality Group
Read MoreJamie Gannon
Head Judge Culinary Director – Feros Group
Claire Van Vuuren
Judge Head chef / Owner – Bloodwood
Amanda Fuller
Judge Director of F&B – Accor Group
Troy Crisante
Judge Head Chef – Quay
Chris Jordan
Judge First Nations Chef – Three Little Birds
Simon Sandall
Judge Boronia Kitchen
John McFadden
Guest Judge Ecofry
Chef of the Year: Expert tips from Glenn Flood on how to succeed
Whether you’re aspiring to earn a Michelin star or lead a kitchen brigade, entering Chef of the Year can be a game-changer. As a Chef of the Year Judge, Glenn Flood knows what it takes to compete in high-stakes competitions. He sat down with Bidfood to share his top tips for chefs looking to take out the top prize in the Chef of the Year and other cooking competitions.
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