The Great British Menu is back for 2025 and Ed Gamble has been discussing its big return…
The Great British Menu returned to BBC Two and iPlayer for its landmark 20th series in January. New judge, Lorna McNee, former Great British Menu Champion and one of the UK’s most acclaimed and decorated chefs, has joined Tom Kerridge and Ed Gamble in the search to find the next best in British cuisine. Andi Oliver, who has featured on the show since 2017 is back as series host and mentor.
This season’s theme of “Great Britons” sees chefs draw inspiration from their choice of important people, from ancient to modern history, who’ve come from their area.
Interview with Ed Gamble
What can the viewers look forward to in this season of Great British Menu?
More outstanding food, of course, but that’s a given with Great British Menu. We got to meet some excellent chefs competing for the first time and welcomed back some brilliant returning legends. Also, a new judge! Lorna is fantastic and fit into the team right away. All in all, everything you love about Great British Menu is back bigger and better.
How hard will the winning chef need to work to become the Champion of Champions?
We ask a lot from the chefs. They’re all at the top of their game anyway, but we need them to push it even further. Great food is a given, but fitting into our theme as well as providing a banquet ready dish is no mean feat. To get through the heats, finals week and then win the banquet is a massive undertaking and I can’t imagine how hard they have to work. Rather them than me, I’m happier just eating it all and casting my judgement.
Out of all the series you’ve been on, which has been your favourite theme and what dish would you have cooked to honour that theme?
I love the centenary of the BBC theme. It was my first year as a regular judge – the inspiration was very close to my heart and it gave the chefs a very broad remit to have some fun. Personally, I wouldn’t even attempt to cook in the competition for fear of people realising I’m even less qualified to judge than they think I am. I’d probably try and sneak a takeaway through the back door.
Why do you think Great British Menu has been so successful for so long?
So many reasons. The gifted chefs, the themed banquets, the increasing ambition of the dishes. More and more it’s a great opportunity to discover new culinary talent and get to know them. In the last few years, I feel like Andi Oliver is a huge reason why the show has been so successful. I would watch Andi present a leaf.
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