Kamil Nowak Wins UK Prix ArsNova de Cuisine d’Auteur Competition

Kamil Nowak (Senior Sous Chef at one Michelin star Luca Restaurant, Clerkenwell), has been crowned the winner of the prestigious UK Prix ArsNova de Cuisine d’Auteur, marking a defining moment in his career and securing his place in the international final in Paris next February.

Michel Roux, President of the UK National Competition, praised Nowak’s performance:

“Kamil’s dish was a masterclass in precision. Each element was placed with purpose and every flavour carefully considered. The attention to detail was notable, coupled with the level of technical ability it demonstrated fine cuisine at its best. My congratulations to him for his impressive win against so many other talented chefs across the UK, and all the very best of luck in Paris when he faces the other international winners in this wonderful global competition.”

Nowak, delivered a standout performance that impressed the judging panel led by renowned chef Michel Roux. The meticulously crafted dish demonstrated a balance of technical skill and a profound depth of creativity and flavour.

Each of the UK competitors submitted their comprehensive recipe including concepts, methodology, costings and the story of their inspiration. The recipe is a closely guarded secret until the presentation of the dish in front of the panel of international judges at the Paris Final. The theme will be deer.

Nowak has competed before, and made it to the international final in 2023, but this time he hopes to be victorious. Speaking after his win, Nowak said:

“I am overjoyed to win the UK Prix ArsNova de Cuisine d’Auteur and to have the chance to return to Paris for the international final. After my first final, I promised myself that I would come back and give my very best — so to achieve that now feels incredibly special. I am more determined than ever to showcase my creativity, skills, and passion as I represent the UK on the international stage.”

The Prix ArsNova de Cuisine d’Auteur, often referred to as the “Everest of Gastronomy,” is one of the most respected culinary competitions in the world, championing technical excellence, innovation in the classic French cooking tradition. The competition strives to elevate young culinary talents and connect them to an international platform of excellence.

The International Culinary Prize is a vital part of the philanthropic ArsNova Endowment Fund, a charitable organisation founded by Maison Taittinger in 2023. The aim is to promote the culture of beauty and creativity to the widest possible audience with the arts, opera, music and cultural heritage also a focus.

Nowak will represent the United Kingdom in the international grand final in Paris, where he will compete against top chefs from across the globe. His journey is a testament to his resilience and a relentless pursuit of culinary perfection.

The winner of the International Final will receive €20,000 and a trophy: the runner-up will get €5,000 and the chef in third place is awarded €2,500.

The ArsNova charity gala dinner will be held in Nowak’s honour, along with the panel of judges and ArsNova ambassadors, at The Landmark London, 12^th January 2026. The iconic hotel is delighted to support the ArsNova charity. Further information and ticket details to this exclusive event to follow.