BCF Chef of the Year 2021 Results

British Culinary Federation

Leo, from Michelin-starred restaurant, Simpsons, Birmingham, has been crowned 2021 British Culinary Federation Chef of the Year at an industry Awards Dinner held at University College Birmingham on Monday 18th October.

As the 17th winner of the competition, Leo joins an elite group of past winners and Michelin starred chefs which includes Simon Hulstone, Luke Tipping, Richard Turner, Adam Bennett, Matt Cheal, Adam Handling, Martin Carabott and Ian Musgrave.

About the competition

Sponsored by Aubrey Allen and Bord Bia, supported by Staff Canteen, Goodfellows and Villeroy & Boch, Leo received the award from Russell Allen, Managing Director of Aubrey Allen, Donal Denvir, UK Manager, Bord Bia and Stuart McLeod, BCF Chairman. As well as the trophy, commemorative plate, framed certificate and a cheque for £2,500, he also won an Irish Beef-inspired visit to Ireland.

Leo impressed the celebrity line-up of judges with three outstanding dishes. Judges included Ashley Palmer-Watts; Sat Bains, Restaurant Sat Bains; Brian Turner CBE; Rachel Humphrey, Le Gavroche; Adam Smith, Coworth Park and Ian Musgrave, The Ritz, previous Chef of the Year winner.

Leo was one of twelve strong chefs to reach the live final cook off. A month before the final, each finalist was sent a video of a Butchery Masterclass from Aubrey Allen’s Academy where the cut of meat for the final was disclosed. All twelve chefs had to produce a three-course meal for two covers in two hours, which centred on using Irish Grass-Fed Beef, Sirloin Flat Iron.