The long-running cookery competition concluded its latest series with a finale that brought both contestants and viewers full circle. The final three contestants were tasked with preparing and presenting three impressive courses for judges Grace Dent and Giorgio Locatelli, who ultimately determined the winner of the coveted trophy.

This season marked a significant transition for the program following the departure of longtime judges John Torode and Gregg Wallace, whose exit had prompted questions about the show’s future. The introduction of Dent, a respected restaurant critic, and Locatelli, a seasoned chef with experience judging MasterChef Italia, injected new energy into the series. Their differing backgrounds—Dent’s critical palate and Locatelli’s hands-on culinary expertise—offered a fresh dynamic that resonated with audiences.

One notable innovation this season was the replacement of the traditional Mystery Box challenge with a live cookalong led by Locatelli. Contestants were required to replicate his preparation of “nonna’s goat’s-cheese gnocchi,” a dish that proved difficult for many, with some results described as overly sticky or dense. The challenge highlighted the contestants’ technical skill and adaptability under pressure, even as some efforts fell short of the authentic standard set by Locatelli’s grandmother’s recipe.

While the new judging panel and format adjustments received praise for reinvigorating the series, some critique was directed toward the choice of celebrity participants. Observers noted that a substantial portion of the celebrity contestants were not widely recognized, which potentially undermined that element of the show’s appeal.

Overall, Dent and Locatelli have been credited with bringing a renewed sense of vitality and expertise to the competition, effectively revitalizing a familiar format. Their presence and fresh approach have been seen as a positive step for the program’s ongoing evolution, fostering a viewing experience described as both fresher and more engaging.