Here is Everything you need to know about BBC's Great British Menu as it returns for its 20th series.
Great British Menu (GBM) is a popular British television series that first aired on BBC Two in 2006. It showcases some of the finest chefs from across the United Kingdom, who compete to create fantastic dishes that celebrate British cuisine, often with a modern twist.
The first season was created to celebrate British cuisine in honour of Queen Elizabeth II's 80th birthday, where the winning chefs cooked at a prestigious banquet.
The chefs compete across different rounds—often regional heats and themed challenges—to earn a spot at a grand banquet. Each chef is tasked with creating a complete four-course meal: starter, fish, main, and dessert.
Every season, GBM centres around a unique theme, often tied to major events or honouring British cultural figures. Past themes include tributes to the NHS, children's literature, 150 years of British music, and the 75th anniversary of D-Day.
Over the years, the judging panel and the structure have evolved. Initially, the show was judged solely by a panel of well-known food critics and culinary experts. Later, chefs who judged regional heats were introduced, adding another level of expertise and rivalry.
The show’s hosts have included Jennie Bond, Sheree Murphy, and Andi Oliver, who is one of the most recent presenter.
The judging panel has featured various critics and food experts over the years, including Prue Leith (before her *Bake Off* role), Matthew Fort, Oliver Peyton, Nisha Katona. Current judges are Tom Kerridge, Ed Gamble and new for 2025 Lorna McNee.
How many regions compete in Great British Menu?
There are eight regions with three competing chefs from each, the regions are; Scotland, South West, North West, Wales, Central, London and South East, North East and Northern Ireland.
Who are the Great British Menu judges?
In the regional heats, the chefs’ dishes will be judged by eight competition veterans who are now among the most accomplished and successful chefs in the UK. They usually include Daniel Clifford, Simon Rogan, Phil Howard, Richard Corrigan, Michael O’Hare and Angela Hartnett.
