Gold Service Scholarship reveals 2026 finalists

Ten food and beverage front-of-house professionals from across the United Kingdom will compete in the 2026 Gold Service Scholarship final in January. 

Individuals from the likes of Claridge's, Gleneagles, Le Manoir and The Ritz will now take part in a practical service assessment in front of a number of high-profile judges from across the hospitality sector. The full list of finalists can be seen below.

The Scholarship Final takes place at Kerridge’s Bar and Grill, Corinthia London, on 19 January 2026.

At the final, the candidates will plan, prepare and deliver a three-course lunch for invited guests. Their work will include mise en place, guest welcome, tableside preparation of dishes, and wine and beverage service.

Judges will observe technical ability, consistency, communication and overall professional conduct. The 2026 Gold Service Scholar will be announced at a ceremony at Claridge’s on 9 February.

"This year’s winning finalists represent a broad cross-section of the hospitality sector, and each brings experience from a different type of operation," says Edward Griffiths, chair of the judges. "We acknowledge the commitment required to reach this stage of the competition and look forward to seeing their work during the final assessment.

"We must also note the quality of entrants in both our quarter and semi finals. It was a really strong year this year and we hope to see them all apply again next year."

The 2026 Gold Service Scholarship finalists

- Giacomo Arcadu, Manager in Training at The Lanesborough in London
- Andreea Bercu, Events Operations Supervisor at Claridge’s in London
- Harry Blackhall, Assistant Restaurant Manager at Gleneagles in Perthshire
- Caoimhe Houston, Head Waiter at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in Oxfordshire
- Daniel Johnson, Head Waiter at The Ritz London
- Bianca Mesteru, Head Maître D at Brown’s Hotel in London
- Harry Nugent, Assistant Restaurant Manager at 74 Charlotte Street by Ben Murphy in London
- Joel Pennington, Restaurant Manager at The Cottage in the Wood in Cumbria
- Brendan Tierney, Chef de Rang at Number One at The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh
- Fabrizia Welman, Restaurant Manager Simon Rogan on Britannic Explorer, A Belmond Train.

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