Twenty-two-year-old Phillip Ho was crowned Delifresh Young Chef of the Year at St James’ Park in Newcastle, as chefs competed to impress a panel of judges featuring some of the industry’s biggest names.
Phillip – who runs Craving Asian in Ouseburn with Phoebe Lao and Hinley Chan – wowed the judges on his third visit to the final. He impressed a panel including Pierre Koffmann and Tom Kitchin with his creativity, technical skills and passion for success in the industry.
“I’m truly honoured to be named Delifresh Young Chef of the Year,” said Phillip. “This competition has given me the platform to push my creativity and learn from some of the best in the industry. I look forward to continuing my journey in food.”
The final, which saw eight young chefs from across the UK showcase their talents, culminated in a thrilling live cook-off at St James’ Park. The event, which drew food industry leaders, media and food enthusiasts, celebrated the talent of the competitors and the future of the UK’s gastronomic landscape. It also featured a showcase of local food producers, with some 600 guests in attendance.
“We’re incredibly proud to crown Phillip Ho as this year’s winner,” said Robert Ramsden, marketing director at Delifresh. “His winning dishes – a blend of locally sourced ingredients and innovative techniques – captured what it means to be a young chef in today’s dynamic food scene. His passion, innovation and dedication to the art of cooking set him apart from an exceptionally talented group of finalists. We are excited to see where his culinary career will take him.”
Delifresh, a leading supplier of fresh produce and ingredients to restaurants and chefs across the UK, hosted the competition to discover and nurture the next generation of culinary talent. It is designed to support the future of the industry, and encourage creativity, excellence and a commitment to quality – with heats for chefs aged 25 and under at Leeds City College, Middlesbrough College, and Betty’s Cookery School in Harrogate leading to the final in Newcastle.
