Northern chefs have been recognised as some of the best in the world, including two new entrants, in a global competition judged by chefs and industry professionals.
THE Best Chef Awards 2025 was held in Milan, Italy. Despite being new entrants, Northumberland Pine restaurant chef-owner Cal Byerley and head chef Ian Waller received a One Knife Award.
The Awards celebrate culinary excellence worldwide. It recognises chefs based on their impact and skill based on three categories: Three Knives (the best), Two Knives (world class) and One Knife (excellent).
The 2025 edition saw hundreds of chefs from over 69 countries honoured across the Knife tiers.
Other Northern chefs recognised were Newcastle Upon Tyne’s Solstice by Kenny Atkinson, (One Knife). Solstice is the intimate, personably run restaurant just around the corner from Atkinson’s chef-owner flagship, House of Tides.
Mark Birchall, chef-patron of Moor Hall Restaurant with Rooms. (Two Knives).
And Simon Rogan of L’Eclume in Cartmel, Cumbria (Two Knives).
The Best Chef in the World title went to Rasmus Munk, Alchemist, Denmark, with second place awarded to Ana Roš, Hiša Franko, Slovenia and, third place to Himanshu Saini, Trèsind Studio, UAE.
In addition to the awards ceremony, the event featured panel discussions, exclusive dining experiences, and opportunities for chefs to share their knowledge and insights.
Votes are cast by chefs and industry professionals from 69 countries worldwide, recognising culinary professionals from six continents.
“Achieving this recognition for the first time is mind-blowing,” said Pine restaurant Cal Byerley and Ian Waller.
“It reflects the hard work of the entire team at Pine. We’re thrilled to be listed alongside so many brilliant chefs, individuals we’ve admired for years, who continue to inspire us. It’s all a bit surreal, but we’ll do our best to celebrate when we have some downtime.”
Cristian Gadau, co-founder and CEO of The Best Chef, said: “The Best Chef Awards are more than just a celebration of culinary excellence. They are a reflection of a community that continues to grow and inspire.
“Our mission has always been to create a platform that honours chefs not only for their skill, but also for their vision and impact.”
For the complete list of The Best Chef Awards 2025 winners and honourees, please visit thebestchefawards.com
