The annual event invites talented young chefs aged 17-23, currently in college education or on an apprenticeship scheme linked to a college, to showcase their creativity, skill and passion for risotto – the iconic Italian dish synonymous with quality and craftsmanship. Closing date is 31 March, 2026.

Entrants are asked to create and photograph their own risotto dish and share the story behind it. Selected candidates will then be invited to one of 11 regional heats across the UK and Ireland, where they will cook their dish live before an expert judging panel.

As a long-standing advocate for sustainability, Riso Gallo is encouraging competitors to minimise food waste in their entries. Jason Morrison, managing director of Riso Gallo UK, said: “By reducing food waste, we can help to create a positive impact on climate change. Food waste is a solvable problem, and we encourage young chefs to take responsibility for their creations and lead by example in the kitchen.”

RIOSSETO 1

Regional winners will progress to the Grand Final on 1 June 2026 at The H Club, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, where their dishes will be judged by an esteemed panel of leading chefs, headed by Paul Gayler MBE.

The winner will receive an all-expenses-paid three-day work experience in Milan with Chef Fabio Pisani and his team at the Michelin-starred Il Luogo Aimo e Nadia. The runner-up will be awarded a stage at the Italian Embassy in London.

The regional heats will take place in:

  • Northern Ireland - Belfast, IFEX
  • Ireland - Dublin
  • Wales - Newport, ICC
  • Scotland - Lanarkshire & Edinburgh
  • North East - Leeds
  • East - Bridlington
  • North West - Manchester
  • Midlands - Loughborough
  • South East - Hertfordshire
  • South West - Exeter

Riso Gallo, the first international rice brand to produce rice from sustainable agriculture, proudly supplies Tottenham Hotspur Stadium’s catering operations. 

Jason Morrison added: “For 170 years, Riso Gallo has supplied many of the world’s top chefs with Italian rice of the highest quality. We launched this competition to help foster and reward the next generation – young chefs who bring passion, creativity and a modern sensibility to one of Italy’s most beloved dishes. The competition continues to grow in stature and talent each year.”

For full entry details and competition updates, visit youngrisottochef.com.