Sally Abé joins Toque d'Or as head judge

Nestlé Professional has announced that chef Sally Abé has been appointed as head judge for the 38th edition of Toque d’Or.

Having worked at a number of top establishments including The Savoy, The Ledbury and Michelin-starred pub The Harwood Arms, Abé now leads a brigade of chefs at Cotswolds gastropub The Bull, which was named the UK's best pub in 2025.

As well as sharing her expertise, Nestlé Professional says she’ll work closely with next year’s finalists in a bespoke challenge centred around the competition theme of cultural fusion, diversity and innovation. 

"It’s such an honour to join the Toque d’Or judging panel as head judge this year," says Abé. "Supporting the next generation of chefs is something I care deeply about, they’re the future of our industry. I can’t wait to see how they interpret this year’s theme and use their creativity to celebrate culture, flavour and innovation through food."

Who else is on the panel?

Joining Abé on the Toque d’Or panel will be chef Kate Austen and hospitality professional Andy Downton.  

From working for Gordon Ramsay as senior development chef to becoming the youngest female head chef of a two-Michelin starred restaurant (Restaurant AOC in Copenhagen), Austen also won the main course on BBC 2’s Great British Menu. 

Over his 20-year career, Downton has worked with some of the UK’s most celebrated establishments, including Gordon Ramsay at Claridge’s, The Savoy, City Social, Park Chinois, and has provided consultancy for The Fat Duck.   

Also returning to the judging panel are previous competition finalists and winners, who will share their experience and insight as former competitors turned mentors. 

"We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Sally to the Toque d’Or judging panel for 2026," adds Louise Bawden, senior events and strategic partnership manager at Nestlé Professional. "Her passion for championing British ingredients and nurturing young talent perfectly reflects the values at the heart of the competition. With Sally, Kate and Andy bringing such a diverse mix of experience and perspectives, next year’s competitors are set to be inspired, challenged and supported like never before."

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