The competition will give five chefs the chance to receive one-on-one mentorship from Cochran, developing their business acumen and culinary skill before competing in a two-round cook-off.
The overall winner will receive £2,000 worth of Heinz products to support their operator, a cash prize of £2,000, the chance to co-host an exclusive supper club with James Cochran and national PR exposure. By entering all eligible individuals will be placed into a prize draw for the chance to win £100 in cash.
Tom Franklin, director of foodservice at Kraft Heinz, said: “Masters of the Menu is more than just a culinary competition, it’s a way to champion dedicated chefs from smaller operations and help build their profile within the industry.
“We’re thrilled to be working with James, his dynamic energy and culinary aptitude aligns perfectly with the Kraft Heinz brand and its host foods. His experience in running his own restaurants and developing new business concepts makes him an ideal mentor for independent operators, not only from a culinary perspective but from an operational perspective.”
Kraft Heinz has a legacy providing Brits with products they love since 1886, when the Heinz Tomato Ketchup was first sold in London. According to research 76% of consumers stated that Heinz Tomato Ketchup is of better quality than other brands.
Cochran added: “It’s a real privilege to share what I’ve learned after more than a decade in the culinary industry. I owe so much of my career to the incredible mentorship and opportunities I received along the way.
“That’s why this competition with Kraft Heinz means so much to me - it’s a chance to give back to the industry that shaped me. I’m excited to see the amazing talent out there and hope I can play even a small part in helping it grow.”
To enter for a chance to compete in Masters of the Menu, individuals will need to develop and submit a recipe using one or more Heinz core products. Successful entrants will compete with this dish in the first round of the final cook off.
The competition is open to any chef resident in the UK, aged 18 or over and working for an independent operator (independently owned with four or fewer locations). Entries opened on 2nd July 2025 and close on 2nd October 2025.
For more information, visit: https://www.kraftheinzawayfromhome.com/en-GB/mastersofthemenu