Brixton Village’s homegrown food competition returns this July — and for the first time ever, the public can eat their way into the judging process.
You don’t need a Michelin star to get noticed, but it sure does help. The grassroots culinary competition Brixton Kitchen famously crowned Adejoké Bakare in its inaugural year, who went on to become the first Black female chef in the UK to win a Michelin star with her restaurant Chishuru.
Now, the contest is back for 2025, giving South London’s brightest up-and-coming chefs the chance to battle it out in front of a live (and hungry) audience.
What’s The Deal?
Brixton Kitchen has always been about spotlighting local food talent, and this year they’re doubling down on community. Across two Saturdays in July, finalists will be given control of their own takeaway pop-up inside Brixton Village’s Market Row. Think street food meets culinary proving ground. No booking, no RSVP – just turn up, grab a bite, and share your thoughts to help shape the competition’s outcome.
But that’s not all. Two lucky finalists will go on to host their first-ever sit-down services in Bottle & Rye, the intimate Brixton wine bar run by judge and local heavyweight Robin Gill. Seats are free but extremely limited, so you’ll need to enter a ballot if you want in on the action. Think of it as a secret supper club where your feedback could help launch the next big thing.
The London x London Take
Brixton Kitchen is exactly the kind of community-rooted event we love: unpretentious, full of heart and laser-focused on talent. Whether you’re a foodie looking to be first on the scene or just after a good plate of something new, this is one of the most exciting things happening in London this July. We’ll be down there with napkins at the ready.
Need to Know
What: Brixton Kitchen 2025 – Public Finals
Where:
• Takeaway rounds: Market Row, Brixton Village, Coldharbour Ln, SW9 8PS
• Final dinners: Bottle & Rye, 404-406 Market Row, SW9 8LD
When:
• Takeaway rounds: Saturdays 19 & 26 July, 12:30pm – 4:30pm
• Final dinners: Sundays 20 & 27 July, from 6:30pm
Cost: Free
Booking:
• Takeaway: Walk-in only
• Final dinners: Ballot entry, closes 15 July- enter here
