Tom Curtis Crowned National Burger Chef of the Year 2026

Dodo’s very own Tom Curtis took on the National Burger Awards and came home with a title. Not a bad day’s work.

National Burger Awards 2026? Completed it.

Last week, Dodo had the absolute honour of competing as finalists at Dine Out Magazine’s 2026 National Burger Awards, joining some of the biggest names in the burger world for a day of serious cooking, big flavours and excellent company.

Making the finals was already a proper moment. The annual competition brings together restaurants, pubs and street food businesses from across the UK, with finalists cooking live in front of the judges. This year’s line-up included plenty of industry heavyweights, so we were chuffed just to be in the room.

Then Tom Curtis went and won the thing.

Well, one very important thing: National Burger Chef of the Year 2026.

Tom took home the title after winning the technical round, where finalists were challenged to create the ultimate burger using a selection of sponsor ingredients. His winning creation, the Patty Au Poivre, featured an Aubrey Allen patty, Americana brioche bun, Heinz Truffle Mayonnaise, Kerrymaid Dairy XL Cheese Slices, Kühne Crispy Fried Onions, rocket, peppercorn and tarragon butter, and onion jam.

Safe to say, we’re ridiculously proud.

Tom represented Dodo brilliantly, flying the flag for proper pub food, big flavour and the kind of attention to detail that makes a burger more than just a burger. And when DJ BBQ says your sauce “could bring about world peace,” you’re probably doing something right.

No pressure, Tom.

A huge thank you to Dine Out Magazine and the National Burger Awards for having us, and to everyone who cheered Tom on. Same time again next year?

Congratulations, Tom. National Burger Chef of the Year has a nice ring to it.