Ulster University student becomes youngest and first-ever student winner of the prestigious title
Sophie Smith has been crowned IFEX NI Chef of the Year 2026, becoming the youngest winner in the competition’s history at just 22 years old and the first ever student to claim the prestigious accolade.
Currently in her final year studying Culinary Arts Management at Ulster University, Sophie works in the Academy Restaurant during the week and at the newly opened Beau Restaurant in Belfast at weekends, under renowned NI chef Lottie Noren. Entering her first senior-level competition, she delivered a standout performance to claim the top ChefSkills title at IFEX, Northern Ireland’s largest food, drink, retail and hospitality exhibition, held at the Eikon Exhibition Centre from 24–26 February
A highlight of the renowned Salon Culinaire Belfast programme, NI Chef of the Year is regarded as one of the most respected culinary titles in the region. Sophie impressed judges with her confident technique, creative flair and modern approach to Ulster produce, enhanced with Asian-inspired flavours. Reacting to her win, Northern Ireland Chef of the Year 2026, Sophie Smith, described the award as a deeply personal milestone:
“This was my first senior competition and I still can’t quite believe I’m able to say I’ve been named Northern Ireland’s Chef of the Year 2026.
“The past two months have demanded discipline, focus and constant refinement as I developed my competition menu. I’m incredibly grateful to Chef Sean Owens, Michael Gillies, Jacqui Quinn and the entire Ulster University Culinary Arts Faculty for their guidance and support throughout.
“To be the youngest and first student to receive this title means a great deal. Yesterday would have been my nana’s birthday – she was the reason my love of cooking first flourished – and I thought of her often throughout this journey.”
Supported by Food NI, the competition has a long-standing reputation for identifying and celebrating exceptional culinary talent. Previous winners include some of Northern Ireland’s most respected chefs, including Michael Deane, Stephen Brothers, Roisin Gavin and Paul Cunningham, along with 2024 winner Ben Armstrong.
More than 250 students and industry chefs took part in over 30 category competitions across Salon Culinaire Belfast, showcasing the depth of culinary talent across Northern Ireland.
IFEX will return in 2028. For more information, visit www.ifexexhibition.co.uk
