The competition was open to anyone working at one of the 115 Bupa care homes and 10 Richmond Villages around the country who had a passion for cooking. The competition, which attracted a number of applications, involved competitive heats and tables for the final were sold to raise funds for the Trussell Trust.
An initial 24 chefs competed in three heats, using their own recipes and ingredients to produce a starter, main and dessert for the judging panel.
Three finalists were chosen to compete at the Grand Final, hosted at Edgbaston Cricket Ground in front of an audience of 140 people who were tasked with selecting the overall winner. The three dishes served during the final were:
- Starter – Trio of Duck by Jonathan Green, head chef at Richmond Villages Northampton
- Main - Baked Cod Loin with Boulangère Potatoes, Peas Bonne Femme and Sorrell by James Day, sous chef at Richmond Villages Aston on Trent
- Dessert - Apple Souffle Crumble by Terry Warren, chef manager at Collingwood Grange Care Home, Camberley
Leon Palmer, director of public sector and hospitality at Bupa and head judge, said: “When we created this competition, it was all about shining a spotlight on our amazing chefs, and it’s been an extraordinary first year celebrating the incredible talent working across our Bupa care homes.
“Although we could only crown one winner, every dish we tried blew us away, with amazing thought, creativity and pride clearly on display. We can’t wait to go again next year, championing our excellent chefs, while also raising money for a great cause in the process.”
With the competition proving to be a huge success, plans are already underway for the Great Bupa Menu 2026.
Commenting on his win, Warren added: “I’m immensely proud to have won this competition, but truly every chef that took part is a winner. Together, we helped raise £30,000 for the Trussell Trust, which makes this achievement even more special.
“It’s been incredibly inspiring to be reminded how food can bring people together, creating meaningful experiences and lasting memories, something we’re proud to deliver every day across our Bupa care homes.”