Northern Ireland’s thriving food scene is once again in the national spotlight as chef Callum Irwin takes his place in the 2026 series of Great British Menu.
Recognised as one of the UK’s most prestigious culinary competitions, the show brings together the country’s top chefs—and this year, Callum represents a new generation of Northern Irish talent making its mark on a national stage.
A Rising Talent in Northern Irish Cuisine
At just 27, Callum Irwin has built an impressive reputation within the hospitality industry. A graduate of Ulster University with first-class honours in Culinary Arts Management, his early career was shaped by both academic excellence and competitive success.
His professional journey has taken him through some of Belfast’s most respected kitchens, including Michelin-starred environments, where he refined his technique and developed a signature style rooted in precision, creativity, and respect for ingredients.
International experience, including time spent working in Hong Kong, further broadened his culinary perspective—helping to shape a modern approach that blends classical training with global influence.
The Story Behind Cooked by Callum
Alongside his work in high-end kitchens, Callum founded Cooked by Callum, a bespoke private dining and events business that has quickly become known for delivering restaurant-quality experiences in more personal settings.
The brand specialises in:
- Luxury private dining
- High-end event catering
- Tailored menus built around seasonal, locally sourced produce
Through Cooked by Callum, he brings fine dining directly to clients across Northern Ireland—combining technical excellence with a relaxed, personalised approach.
His growing reputation has seen him cater for high-profile clients and major events, including The Open Championship at Royal Portrush, further cementing his status as one of the region’s most sought-after chefs.
Competing on Great British Menu
Callum’s appearance on Great British Menu marks a significant milestone in his career.
Competing in the Northern Ireland heat, he faces some of the region’s leading chefs for a place in the competition’s finals week. Each chef is challenged to create a menu inspired by a central theme—in 2026, British film and cinema—requiring not only technical skill but creativity and storytelling through food.
Callum’s dishes reflect the core principles of his cooking: bold ideas, refined execution, and a strong connection to Northern Ireland’s produce and identity.
Recognition and Industry Impact
Callum Irwin’s rise within the industry has been matched by growing recognition:
- Recipient of the Best Young Person in Business award from Ballymena Chamber
- Featured in Northern Ireland on a Plate
- Ambassador for the Springboard FutureChef programme
Through his ambassadorial work, he actively supports and mentors aspiring young chefs, contributing to the future of the hospitality industry.
A Modern Dining Experience
Cooked by Callum is built on more than culinary skill—it is driven by a philosophy centred on experience.
Each menu is designed to tell a story, celebrate local ingredients, and create memorable occasions tailored to the individual client. Whether an intimate private dinner or a large-scale event, the focus remains the same: exceptional food, delivered with precision and personality.
Bringing the Experience Home
Callum Irwin’s participation in Great British Menu represents a defining moment—not only for his own career, but for the continued evolution of Northern Ireland’s food scene.
Through Cooked by Callum, that same level of creativity and quality is available beyond the screen.
Bookings are now open for private dining and events across Northern Ireland.