Suche
Mein Konto
Chef of the Year: Apply now for the grand finale in Munich!
Find out everything about the “Chef of the Year” competition in Landsberg am Lech, which will shape the culinary semi-finals in Munich on April 26, 2026.
Chef of the Year: Apply now for the grand finale in Munich!
When it comes to the culinary highlights in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, the “Chef of the Year” competition is at the top of the list. This remarkable competition has been running for 11 years now and has become an important format in the European gastronomy scene. The next challenge will take place on April 26, 2026 in the renowned Allianz Arena in Munich. Until then, talented chefs can apply until February 26, 2026. We are looking for 16 participants to demonstrate their creative talents and submit both classic and modern interpretations of dishes based on their childhood culinary memories.
The competition selection process places particular emphasis on personality, courage and authenticity; Technical skills are not the focus. After the application deadline, a jury of well-known experts will select 16 semi-finalists who will compete against each other on April 26, 2026. Four of the participants will be forwarded directly to the final, which will take place on November 15th and 16th, 2026 at Motorworld Munich.
An unforgettable event
The semi-finals will not only be characterized by the competition entries from the 16 top chefs, but also promise a large supporting program. A large number of over 1000 guests, including trade visitors, journalists and influencers, are expected. Organized by ROIKA Solutions GmbH, the catering is provided by DO & CO, so that the culinary accompaniment of the event can also take place at the highest level. In addition, various awards, such as the Best Plating Award, will be presented during the event, which further spices up the competition.
- Wichtige Termine:
- Bewerbungsschluss: 26. Februar 2026
- Kennenlern-Event: 23. März 2026 bei RATIONAL, Landsberg am Lech
- Halbfinale: 26. April 2026, Allianz Arena, München
- Finalist:innen-Bekanntgabe: 26. April 2026
- Finale: 15.–16. November 2026, Motorworld München
A particularly exciting aspect of the competition is the awarding of two further final places by the audience at the so-called “Chefs Challenge Night”. Last year, Daniel Wallenstein secured the title of “Chef of the Year” and the number of participants was overwhelming, with over 400 applications for the semi-finals alone. In this edition we can once again look forward to great talents and innovative gastronomic concepts that not only want to conquer the tastes but also the hearts of the guests.
A look into the future
The importance of the competition is also reflected in the number of participants who have since been awarded Michelin stars; Over 50 of more than 200 participants made this great culinary dream come true. The event not only promotes sustainable careers in the catering industry, but also innovative concepts that drive the industry forward. Anyone who has what it takes to make it through to the semi-finals not only has the chance to win prize money of 5,000 euros, but also significant special prizes from sponsors.
Interested chefs should apply as soon as possible! The excitement and anticipation for the semi-finals in the Allianz Arena are already palpable, and the signs point to a culinary adventure. Further information and details can be found on the websites AHGZ and Fressmoppel.