Bicester chef awarded double gold in national competition

Described as a ‘rising star’ of the culinary world, Lucas King, chef at The Plough in North Street, Bicester, which is run by the Olive Tree Pub Company, secured the accolades at the International Salon Culinaire 2026.

The 22-year-old competed in the junior chef category, where his ‘exceptional skill, creativity and precision’ stood out in the fish course and terrine categories.

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His dishes impressed the judges and scored him top marks, with the fish course praised for its balance of flavour and delicate execution, while his terrine showcased classical technique combined with a modern flair.

The young chef took home gold medals in two categories, and won junior best in show (Image: Olive Tree Pub Company)

They earned him two gold ‘Best in Class’ medals for his creations, and set him apart as the overall standout competitor and winner of the coveted ‘Best in Show’ title.

He was awarded the Best Junior Display Exhibit, the highest award for the juniors in the show, which goes to the chef who demonstrates ‘outstanding ability’ across all the judged elements.

Mr King’s fish course saw him win Best in Class for the category (Image: Olive Tree Pub Company)

Speaking after the awards ceremony, Mr King said he was grateful for the recognition and the opportunity to compete at such a high level.

“It’s been an incredible experience, and I’m honoured to be recognised among such talented chefs,” he said.

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One of the most prestigious chef competitions in the world, Salon Culinaire’s Hotel, Restaurant and Catering show took place across three days at the Excel London from March 30.

For more than a century the competitions have been considered the benchmark for emerging talent in the culinary industry and a platform for chefs of all levels to showcase their skills.

Judges noted that this year’s cohort was among the strongest yet.

It’s the second year in a row the chef has taken home gold from the competition (Image: Olive Tree Pub Company)

At last year’s competition, when Mr King had been with The Olive Tree Pub Company for just 18 months, he took home a gold in the starter plates category.

Arran Hodges, one of the founders of the pub company, last year said Mr King “has gone from strength to strength in the kitchen and is one of our future stars to watch.”

The Olive Tree Pub Company is an independent hospitality business in Bicester run by five local friends who took over The Plough in 2024, when it was doomed to closure.

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Their efforts to transform the venue saw recognition last year, when they won New Licensee of the Year and the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award.

The Plough is now praised as a welcoming gastropub and is popular in Bicester, combining a modern dining experience with the character of a traditional village pub.

Next year’s International Salon Culinaire will take place from April 5 to April 7, 2027, at Excel London.