The event gives university caterers the opportunity to showcase their talent as well as a chance for spectators to see them live in action. The event involves two days of competition, networking and collaboration of chefs, baristas and bar tenders from across the TUCO membership.
At last years event Joseph Latham and Ashley Podgers from the University of Leicester emerged victorious in the Chefs’ Challenge for the second year in a row. Former School Chef of the Year (SCOTY) winner Tom Armstrong achieved a bronze medal in this category alongside his sous chef Peter Baren.
A new grading system was introduced allowing multiple bronze, silver and gold winners if they met the standard with one person being named the ‘Best in Class’ for each of the competition categories.
For the 2026 version of the competition there are nine categories available to enter:
- Barista Skills Challenge: is the perfect platform for you to showcase your skills, knowledge and talent in making the perfect cup of coffee.
- Best Burger Challenge: can you improve and enhance one of the most popular food offers in the world?
- New: Breakfast Challenge: returning for 2026, the Breakfast Challenge is to deliver two portions of a hot breakfast.
- Chefs' Challenge: is for a team of two chefs challenged to cook a three-course meal of two covers in two hours.
- Love British Food Challenge: is to deliver two portions of a plated main course using a supplied British protein with suitable garnish and accompaniments.
- Mixology Competition: sees competitors work against the clock with rounds designed to test key skills, creativity and service standards.
- Sandwich Challenge: competitors will have 30-minutes to produce two serves of the same sandwich.
- Seafood Skills Challenge: competitors will have 45 minutes to produce two portions of a main seafood dish.
- Vegan Challenge: competitors will have 45 minutes to produce two portions of a fully vegan dish.
Entry is free of charge for full members and each competitor receives a free two night residential package (accommodation, meals & drinks). For more information and to enter, visit here.