BCF Awards 2026 open for entries
- Katherine Alano
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
The 2026 BCF Awards are now open for nominations.
The awards recognise industry professionals across 11 award categories including Most Promising Young Chef, Chef Lecturer/Mentor of the Year, Restaurant/Hotel Chef of the Year and Lifetime Achievement. at a glittering awards dinner on the 22 June 2026 at The Grand Hotel, Birmingham.
The black-tie event takes place in the Ballroom at the recently refurbished iconic hotel where guest will enjoy a Champagne reception with canapés, five-course dinner with wines and entertainment.
The closing date for nomination entries is 28 February 2026.
BCF Award Categories
Most Promising Young Chef 2026
Johnnie Borra Memorial Trophy
Presented to the most promising young chef under 25 years of age and working full-time within the industry who has demonstrated outstanding talent and enthusiasm.
Chef Lecturer/Mentor of the Year 2026
Ken Fraser MBE Memorial Award
Awarded to a BCF member working within hospitality education who trains, mentors or encourages young chefs to progress within their chosen profession.
BCF Member Award 2026
Robert J Smith Trophy
Presented to anyone within the BCF for their professionalism and dedication to the industry including their loyal support to the Federation
Restaurant/Hotel Chef of the Year 2026
Louis Cipolla Award
Presented for the greatest contribution to the profession by any Restaurant/Hotel chef member within the BCF.
Competition Chef of the Year 2026
Paul Gould OBE Award
Presented for highly recognised contributions to the competition arena across all sectors of the industry.
Most Promising Young Student 2026
Eric Bruce Trophy
Presented to any college student chef in full-time or part-time attendance who has shown enthusiasm and commitment to his or her chosen career.
Hospitality Professional Award 2026
Special Award - Presented to any hospitality professional who has worked tirelessly behind the scenes in the industry but is relatively unnoticed and continues to deliver results.
University Chef Award 2026
Open to any university chef who has shown great professionalism towards their university whilst maintaining high culinary standards.
Pastry Chef of the Year Award 2026
Open to all UK working pastry chefs who excel in their sector and career.
Sustainability Award 2026
Open to any individual or company working in hospitality who promotes and excels in sustainability.
Lifetime Achievement Award 2026
Nominated by the BCF committee.
If you would like to attend, tickets cost £135 per person. Please contact Jerry Toth, BCF secretary on secretary@britishculinaryfederation.com to book.
Ticket price includes:
Champagne reception with canapés, five-course dinner with wines and entertainment.
Reception: 6.30 pm
Dinner: 7.15 pm
Dress: Black Tie
Special rates for the BCF have been arranged for accommodation and breakfast. For sole and double occupancy, £159.00.
To book the bed and breakfast rates quoted, please contact Matty Carter on 0121 827 9641 or email: Matty.Carter@grandbirmingham.co.uk stating the code “BCFD220626”.
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