Vegan Chef Kirk Haworth Triumphs as ‘Champion of Champions’ on Great British Menu

On the Great British Menu (GBM), Blackburn’s Kirk Haworth has emerged as the ‘champion of champions’, dazzling judges and audiences with his innovative vegan dishes. Haworth’s win not only marks a personal triumph but also a groundbreaking moment for plant-based cuisine on the prestigious BBC show.

Reflecting on his momentous achievement, Haworth expressed his gratitude amidst the whirlwind of attention. “When my name was called, it felt amazing. It feels great but overwhelming,” he shared. The victory was the culmination of dedication, with Haworth investing over 140 hours of practice in the lead-up to the competition and crafting his dishes over three weeks.

What sets Haworth apart is not only his culinary prowess but also his approach to plant-based cooking. At 36, he’s made history as the only plant-based chef to reach the final and seize the coveted title. His win challenges preconceptions about vegan cuisine, showcasing its potential for excellence on a platform known for traditional gastronomy. Yet, for Haworth, veganism is more than a dietary choice; it’s about redefining the culinary landscape. “It’s not a political movement,” he emphasizes, aiming to create a style of cookery that transcends labels. His victory reveals this vision, proving that exceptional food knows no bounds, whether plant-based or not.

Haworth’s journey into veganism stemmed from personal health struggles, having been diagnosed with Lyme disease in 2016. Exploring a diet devoid of meat, gluten, refined sugar, and dairy proved transformative, alleviating the intensity of his symptoms. This pivotal moment sparked his culinary evolution, leading him to embrace plant-based cooking with a passion and purpose.

Beyond his triumph on GBM, Haworth sees his cuisine as a voice for those grappling with invisible illnesses. Through his dishes, he hopes to inspire individuals facing similar challenges. “Hopefully, this can give people with invisible and chronic illnesses some motivation to know that they can heal and inspiration to never give up,” he reflects.

Haworth’s victory also adds another chapter to his family’s culinary legacy, following in the footsteps of his father, Nigel Haworth, who showcased his talents on GBM in 2009. Kirk humorously acknowledges this familial connection, quipping, “He knew months before, but he was super proud of me. I also don’t think he could believe I won the show [with plant-based food].”

Looking ahead, Haworth is focused on the opening of his London-based restaurant, Plates, slated for June. The dishes that captivated GBM judges may soon grace the menus of his establishment, promising patrons an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates plant-based cuisine.

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