Antoine Potier wins Queensland Chef of the Year

Antoine Potier has been named Queensland Chef of the Year, winning the prestigious title as well as a cash prize, commercial oven and trip to Melbourne to compete in the national competition.

Antoine is sous chef at the highly awarded Restaurant Dan Arnold in Brisbane. His career highlights include working as head chef at Ecco Bistro and Homage Restaurant. With years of experience in some of the finest kitchens, Antoine brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to his work.

Head Judge Karen Doyle said Potier was an outstanding competitor. “He displayed great innovation and technique. He was exceptional to watch, so organised, and delivered superior food flavours. It was a split decision among four of the best chefs in Queensland on the day.

The competition had more than 100 entries from professional chefs throughout Queensland. The top 28 competed live at the Brisbane Convention Centre as part of the Food and Hospitality Queensland trade exhibition.

The Grand Final was a close contest between Potier, Corey Cowlard from Beenleigh Artisan Distillery, Harry Sung from Moo Moo Wine Bar and previous winner Grant Parry from The Star Gold Coast.

Chefs had to cook two dishes from a mystery box in front of expert judges and a crowd of cheering supporters. This year the mystery box included rack of lamb, Queensland prawns and scallops, baby zucchinis, figs and a vegan chorizo from Love Buds.

“This was a real test to see who could think on their feet and keep their cool when under pressure,” Karen Doyle said. “The mystery box gave the chefs many options and all four performed phenomenally well.”

The Queensland Chef of the Year is one of the most prestigious and rewarding in the country, made possible by generous industry supporters including Unox Ovens, Bidfood, Love Buds, Simco Catering Equipment, Oil2U and Aussie Chef Clothing.

“This year’s event drew more entries and spectators than ever before,” said Competition Director Peter Wright. “We had top chef judges including Karen Doyle, Caleb Bilewicz, Gary Johnson, Paul Rifkin, Matt Wynn and Tom Hitchcock.”

The Australian Professional Chef of the Year will be held as part of Foodservice Australia in Melbourne from 18-20 May 2025. The Queensland Chef of the Year will return to Brisbane next October. For more information visit www.chefcompetition.com.au.