Nestlé Professional’s Toque d’Or® Opens Registrations for 2026 Competition
We’re excited to announce that registrations are now open for the 38th edition of Toque d’Or®, our prestigious competition that celebrates and supports the next generation of hospitality talent.
This year, Toque d’Or® will explore an inspiring theme that captures the energy and creativity of today’s hospitality industry: cultural fusion, diversity and innovation. The theme encourages students to embrace new flavours, ideas and perspectives that are shaping the future of foodservice.
Shaping the Future of Hospitality
Since 1989, Toque d’Or® has worked with more than 150 colleges across the UK, giving almost 10,000 back and front-of-house students the chance to take part in immersive, real-life challenges.
From farm-to-fork to bean-to-cup, we’ve created opportunities for competitors to collaborate with pioneering chefs and industry experts, sharpen their skills, and explore emerging trends in sustainability and regenerative farming.
Through hands-on learning and expert mentorship, students gain the experience and confidence to thrive in a fast-moving and ever-evolving industry.
College lecturers can register their Level 2, 3 and 4 students aged 18 - 25 until Thursday 15 January.
Additionally, the first 20 college lecturers to register will receive a special prize, a selection of Maggi Indian Sauces.
Welcoming Back our Winners
This year’s announcement is especially meaningful for the 2025 winners, Tom Brassington and Katie Blundell, who will return as mentors and judges for the 2026 competition.
In July, Tom and Katie travelled to Italy for their winner’s trip, exploring the country’s world-famous food and drink culture. Next year’s winners will head to Scandinavia, with a culinary tour of Copenhagen, Denmark and Helsingborg, Sweden, two of the world’s most forward-thinking food scenes.
Tom Brassington, 2025 Back-of-House Winner and 2026 Judge:
“Looking back on my Toque d’Or journey, I’ve seen first-hand how high standards, great ingredients and a passion for service can transform learning into unforgettable moments and lifelong experiences. I’m excited to return as a judge and mentor, using my experience to help next year’s competitors build their skills, find their confidence and together shape a brighter future for our industry.”
Katie Blundell, 2025 Front-of-House Winner and 2026 Judge:
“You need a combination of education and real-world experience to truly grow and develop, and that’s exactly what Toque d’Or gives you. It showed me the level of professionalism expected in our industry and inspired me to aim higher. I’m thrilled to be coming back as a judge and look forward to showing students just how rewarding a career in hospitality can be when creativity, service and passion come together.”
Katya Simmons, Managing Director, Nestlé Professional UK&I:
“Focused on cultural fusion, diversity and innovation, the 38th edition of Toque d’Or reflects today’s modern and dynamic world of hospitality. More than just a competition, Toque d’Or offers a platform for our industry to invest in young and creative talent. Therefore, I encourage all college lecturers to register their best students; for the first few there’s a special prize up for grabs!”
