Brixton Village has announced the return of its grassroots chef competition aimed at spotlighting the next generation of food talent.
Brixton Kitchen was launched in 2019 and won by Nigerian-born Adejoké Bakare, who went on to become the first black woman in Britain to earn a Michelin star in 2024 for her West African restaurant, Chishuru.
This year’s competition will once again search for semi-professional chefs who have honed their craft through supper clubs, residencies, or pop-ups, with a strong emphasis on entrants who have connections to Brixton.
Bakare, who will return as a judge for the 2025 edition, said: “I am so grateful for the opportunity I was afforded by Brixton Kitchen.
“Brixton Village is such a unique place, and I’m excited to be part of this year’s competition.”
The winner will be awarded a six-month residency in a sought-after unit in Brixton Village’s Market Row, as well as mentorship from hospitality experts.
Training will cover essential areas such as finance, intellectual property, and restaurant marketing.
Over the summer, 20 shortlisted chefs will take part in three rounds of cooking challenges, judged by a panel of industry professionals.
Finalists will serve a full dining experience to the public in July, with the winner crowned on Thursday 31 July.
Joining Bakare on the judging panel are celebrated restaurateur Robin Gill, and food writer and chef Gizzi Erskine.
The relaunch is part of Brixton Village’s ongoing mission to support local enterprise and celebrate culinary diversity.
The market is home to over 40 restaurants and bars serving food from across the globe, including Venezuelan, Nepalese, Jamaican, and Japanese cuisines.
Brixton Village general manager Diana Nabagereka said: “Brixton Kitchen is back, and I am personally thrilled for the summer ahead.
“It’s been a joy to watch the incredible Adejoké go from strength to strength after starting out on Market Row, and I can’t wait to see what talent we can platform this year.”
Previous Brixton Kitchen contestants have launched successful ventures such as Sarap, Ruben’s Reubens, and sustainability-driven restaurant Fallow.
Entries are open now, and will close on Sunday 15 June.
Feature image: Brixton Village
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