Chef Samira Effa, owner of the My Delhi restaurant in Sunderland, has been confirmed as a contestant for the upcoming 2026 series of the BBC's Great British Menu. The show, which sees chefs from across the UK compete to create a dish for a prestigious banquet, announced its new lineup of regional contestants in March 2026.
Effa, known for her modern Indian street food, will represent the North East and Yorkshire region. Her restaurant, My Delhi, has garnered critical acclaim for its innovative approach to traditional flavors since opening in 2021.
The 2026 season of the competitive cooking show is themed 'Celebration of Animation,' challenging the chefs to create dishes inspired by iconic British animation and film. The series is scheduled to begin filming in the spring, with a broadcast date expected later in the year.
Previous winners of the competition have gone on to cook at banquets for national events. The selection marks a significant career milestone for Effa, highlighting the growing culinary reputation of Sunderland and the North East.
