Thomond Park Stadium played host to a sizzling showdown of young culinary talent recently as the fifth annual Shannon Region Junior Chef of the Year crowned its newest champion. The prestigious competition marks the culmination of a six-month Transition Year (TY) taster initiative led by Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board’s College of Further Education and Training, Hospitality Campus.
This year, the title of Shannon Region Junior Chef of the Year 2025 was awarded to Oscar Mehta, a TY student from St Anne’s Community College, Killaloe. Oscar wowed judges with his composed execution and creative flair, presenting a menu that impressed the seasoned professionals on the judging panel which included Chef Wade Murphy, Euro-Toques Ireland and 1826 Adare, Michelin Star Chef Stefan Matz, Group Executive Chef, iNUA Collection and Michelin Star Chef Aidan McGrath from the Wild Honey Inn.
Pictured Shannon Region Junior Chef of the Year 2025 winner Oscar Mehta with his fellow students from St Anne’s Community College.
Speaking about this year’s competition, Bernadette Cullen, Chief Executive of Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board, praised the programme for its far-reaching impact: “This event showcases the power of practical, hands-on education. It opens doors, builds confidence, and connects students to real opportunities in the hospitality industry. Congratulations to Oscar, the finalists, their schools, and all involved in making this year’s competition such a resounding success.”
Oscar Mehta was one of four outstanding finalists selected from over 250 TY students from schools across the region. The other finalists were Oisin Tierney from Ennis Community College/Gaelcholáiste an Chláir, Sara Murphy from Coláiste Íde & Iosef, Abbeyfeale and Aleksander (Olek) Rutkowski representing Mungret Community College.
Oscar’s award-winning dishes included a main course of pan-fried Loin of Lamb, gratin potatoes, baby carrots, charred leeks and chimichurri sauce and an orange chocolate fondant with orange gel, honeycomb, and chocolate tuille for dessert.
Each finalist was mentored by one of the programme’s expert chefs including Chef Tom Flavin, Chef Diarmuid O’Callaghan, Chef Carol Dollery, and Chef Keith Pigott, all of whom are part of Limerick and Clare ETB’s Hospitality Campus team. These mentors provided invaluable advice and guidance, helping students refine their menus and techniques in preparation for the live final.
All three judges were thoroughly impressed by the innovation and technical skills on display and commended the students on their impressive understanding of flavour, and solid technical skills. Chef Wade Murphy also spoke about their thoughtful use of fresh, local produce in the competition: “Using Irish ingredients is something we as professionals are passionate about, and seeing that awareness and respect for ingredients at such a young age is truly inspiring. The quality of the dishes today would stand up in any professional kitchen.”
Oscar Mehta was supported at the final by his fellow students from St Anne’s Community College, his principal Eukaria O’Grady and his proud parents. When he was crowned Shannon Region Junior Chef of the Year, Oscar was quick to thank everyone: “It’s been an unforgettable experience, I’ve learned so much over the last few months and I’m grateful to my school, my family, and my mentor chef for all their support.”
Bernadette Enright, Manager of the College of Further Education and Training, Hospitality Campus was once again the driving force behind the event and thanked the sponsors of this year’s competition including The Panel of Chefs of Ireland, William’s Gate Master Victualler, Pat O’Connor and Son, Richardsons, La Rousse Foods, Paul Cross Knives, Chef Neven Maguire and Munster Rugby.
Watch the highlights of this year’s competition below…
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