Hosted by Emma Willis and Fred Sirieix, 16 cooks compete in this high-stakes contest. Commencing their journey at Cook HQ, two groups must face off on separate global paths towards a searing hot final taking place in an exotic location. Along the way, they will learn local techniques which they must master to progress, all while infusing their home nation's distinctive flavours and ingredients.
In this tense opener, the first 8 international cooks go head-to-head serving their signature dish representing their home nation. Four places then await them in the first quarter-final, taking place on the sun-kissed beaches of Turkey. Featuring Fred, Emma and guest judges Crystelle Pereira, Atul Kochhar and Tuncay Gülcü.
The next 8 cooks face off for a place in the second quarter final in enchanting Iceland, where they will learn a number of techniques honed over generations. Featuring Fred, Emma and guest judges Crystelle Pereria, Atul Kochhar and Lárus Guðmundsson.
The first semi-final of the tournament sees our cooks tackling the ancient tradition of Peka in the Croatian historic city of Dubrovnik - otherwise know as the 'Pearl of the Adriatic'. Featuring Fred, Emma and guest Crystelle Pereira and Lucija Tomašić Šarić.
Our second group of semi-finalists travel to vibrant Crete, the largest island in Greece, where they will battle it out for the remaining place in the final. Antikristo and tzoulamas are the order of the day, each presenting their own unique challenges. Featuring Fred, Emma, Akis Petretzikis and guest judges Atul Kochhar and Panagiotis Magganas.
We conclude in the stunning resort of Khao Lak, Thailand where our remaining contestants' paths cross. Here they must create a menu representing their individual journeys, including a few local surprises. All that lies between them and the World Cook title is a restaurant full of hungry customers and three demanding chefs. Featuring guest judges Crystelle Pereira, Atul Kochhar and Chef Pam.