Two chefs from Northern Ireland in final of Ireland’s Next Top Chef

The competition was set up in 2023 to celebrate and support the next generation of culinary talent

Two chefs from Northern Ireland are into the final of Ireland’s Next Top Chef 2025.

Stephen Dowie of La Taqueria (Belfast) and Scott Mallett of Café Zulu (Lisburn) are into the final alongside Lauma Kilgas of Kilronan Castle Hotel & Spa (Co. Roscommon), where all three will compete in front of a live audience.

The Grand Finale will take place at The Balmoral Hotel in Belfast on August 7, where the three finalists will put their skills and creativity to the test by creating a signature three-course menu designed to impress the world-class esteemed judging panel.

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Stephen Dowie, Executive Head Chef at La Taqueria in Belfast, has built a reputation for his vibrant, modern take on authentic Mexican cuisine. Known for his ability to balance freshness and spice, his dishes promise bold flavours and striking presentation.

Scott Mallett, Head Chef at Café Zulu in Lisburn, fuses global influences with classic technique to create adventurous, flavour-packed dishes. Known for his commitment to quality ingredients and balanced textures, Scott’s style is both comforting and contemporary.

Lauma Kilgas, Senior Sous Chef at Kilronan Castle Hotel & Spa, is known for her bold flavour pairings and elegant presentation. She brings a refined culinary approach, combining precision and imagination to create standout dishes that are flavourful and visually stunning.

This year’s competition’s judging panel includes Michelin-starred chef Dylan McGrath, Barcelona-based chef and sustainability advocate Sergi de Meià and acclaimed local food critic and broadcaster Joris Minne.

The winner of Ireland’s Next Top Chef 2025 will receive an all-expenses-paid mentorship at the two-star Michelin restaurant – Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in London.

The not-for-profit culinary competition, coordinated by the Balmoral Hotel, was established in 2023 with the aim of identifying, celebrating and supporting the next generation of culinary talent across the island of Ireland.

Open to both professional chefs and ambitious home cooks, the competition offers a high-profile platform for aspiring culinary stars to showcase their skills, creativity, and passion in front of some of the most respected names in the industry.

Contestants progress through a series of live knock-out stages, each designed to test their technical ability, originality and composure under pressure all in pursuit of a place in the Grand Finale and the chance to be crowned Ireland’s Next Top Chef.

John Trainor, Chairperson of Ireland’s Next Top Chef, said: “This year’s Grand Finale of Ireland’s Next Top Chef brings together three outstanding finalists, each offering something truly unique in style, story and skill.

“Lauma, Stephen and Scott have impressed at every stage of the competition, demonstrating exceptional talent, creativity and discipline to earn their place in what promises to be a show-stopping finale.

“From Lauma’s refined artistry to Stephen’s bold, modern flavours and Scott’s globally inspired technique, the diversity of approaches reflects the incredible depth of culinary talent across the island of Ireland.

“Our judging panel is eager to experience their signature menus, and our guests can expect an evening full of drama, skill and unforgettable food.

“Ireland’s Next Top Chef is a celebration of food, ambition and emerging Irish talent. With gourmet dining, live judging and an electric atmosphere, the Grand Finale promises to be one of the most exciting nights on Ireland’s culinary calendar.”

For more information on the 2025 Ireland’s Next Top Chef Competition visit: www.irelandsnexttopchef.com.

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