Brixton Kitchen, the grassroots chef competition that helped launch the career of Michelin-starred Adejoké Bakare, is back for 2025. The competition is once again calling on emerging culinary talent from South London, offering a platform for semi-professional chefs to take the next step in their careers.

First held in 2019, the competition is run by Brixton Village – one of London’s most diverse and dynamic markets, home to over 100 independent traders and more than 40 restaurants spanning global cuisines. This year’s winner will be awarded a six-month residency in a prime unit in Market Row, alongside mentorship from industry professionals on areas such as finance, IP, and marketing.

The competition is aimed at chefs who have hosted supper clubs, pop-ups or residencies, with applicants encouraged to highlight any personal ties to Brixton. Judging will take place over three rounds throughout summer 2025, with a shortlist of 20 cooking for a panel that includes Bakare, chef and restaurateur Robin Gill, and food writer Gizzi Erskine. The final round will see two contestants deliver a full service for the local community, with a winner announced on 31 July.

Brixton Kitchen has become a springboard for new voices in London’s food scene, with past alumni including Ruben Dawnay of Ruben’s Reubens and Budgie Montoya of Sarap. The market has previously incubated successful restaurants like Franco Manca and Honest Burgers, and continues to be a hub for independent, global food businesses.

Applications are now open here and close on Sunday 15th June.