Returning for its fifth consecutive year, the Compass Ireland Chef of the Year competition once again brought together our most talented chefs to compete for the prestigious Senior and Junior Chef of the Year titles.
Hosted at the TU Dublin School of Culinary Arts & Food, the competition celebrated the passion, creativity and technical excellence that define our culinary teams, while highlighting our ongoing commitment to developing and recognising talent across Compass Ireland.
A true test of culinary skill
Chef of the Year is designed to challenge chefs at every stage of their careers, pushing them to demonstrate exceptional culinary expertise, innovation and see how they perform under pressure.
Senior Chef of the Year
Finalists in the Senior Chef of the Year category, open to chefs in Sous Chef positions and above, were given two and a half hours to create an exceptional three-course menu for two covers. Working with a selection of core ingredients alongside a mystery box, competitors showcased their creativity, precision and ability to produce restaurant-
quality dishes within a demanding timeframe.
Junior Chef of the Year
The Junior Chef of the Year category, open to chefs up to Chef de Partie level, challenged finalists to prepare a main course and dessert for two covers within two hours. Incorporating ingredients from a mystery box, the competition tested technical skill, adaptability and innovative thinking, with every chef producing dishes of an exceptionally high standard.
Expert Judging Panel
The competition was judged by an experienced panel comprising Compass Ireland's Culinary Director Shay Kendrick, award-winning chef Kevin Thornton, and our Women in Culinary Ambassadors Sarah Moynihan and Helen Kavanagh.
Drawing on their wealth of industry expertise, the judges assessed each dish on presentation, flavour, technical execution, creativity and overall performance throughout the competition.
Our 2026 Champions
Senior Chef of the Year – Anni Pesola
Anni impressed the judges with her beautifully executed Gurnard Fillet with Fennel and Samphire Salad and Chive Butter Sauce. Her outstanding presentation, perfectly balanced flavours and meticulous attention to detail throughout the competition secured her the top title.
Senior Category Results
- Gold – Anni Pesola
- Silver – Jack French
- Bronze – Mariana Berchert
Junior Chef of the Year - Fernando Carmeluti
Fernando wowed the judges with his dishes, Gurnard Triad and Wild Berry Summer Pudding, showcasing exceptional creativity, technical ability and flawless execution. Winning the title for the second year in a row is a remarkable achievement and reflects his passion, dedication and continued development as a chef.
Junior Category Results
- Silver – Moises De Jesus Martinez Romero
- Bronze – Simona Damiani
Investing in Our People
Chef of the Year is much more than a competition. It is an important investment in our people, encouraging chefs to push boundaries, share best practice and develop new skills while celebrating the incredible culinary talent across Compass Ireland. By creating opportunities like this, we continue to nurture innovation and excellence, ensuring our teams remain at the forefront of workplace dining.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
A special thank you to our valued event sponsors Hugh Jordan, Odaios Foods, and Sysco. Their continued support helped make this year's competition possible and ensured every participant left with something to celebrate.
Congratulations to every chef who took part in Chef of the Year 2026. The passion, professionalism and creativity on display throughout the day were truly inspiring, and we look forward to seeing even more exceptional talent showcased in next year's competition.
