Rescued food, but make it gourmet

Inside the Next Gen Cook Off, where young chefs turn rescued kai into three-course masterpieces.

Forget everything you thought you knew about food waste. Every Monday night in August, four of Wellington’s freshest culinary talents will step into the Everybody Eats kitchen and turn surplus kai into gourmet gold at the Next Gen Cook Off, as part of Wellington on a Plate. Part cooking competition, part community feast, and 100% delicious.

Now in its fifth year, this high-stakes, low-waste event is all about creativity, connection, and making a real impact through kai. Each week, a different up-and-coming chef takes over the kitchen to whip up a knockout three-course menu. The twist? While the protein is locked in, the rest of their ingredients are a surprise mix of perfectly good, rescued ingredients that would have otherwise gone to waste. 

We’re proud to support this year’s Next Gen Cook Off, in collaboration with Everybody Eats and Wellington On a Plate (WOAP). The kaupapa is simple: reduce food waste, feed people with dignity, and celebrate the joy of shared meals. Run on a pay-what-you-can dining model, this event is accessible to all. So, whether you’re flush or feeling the pinch, you’re welcome at the table. 

We caught up with Jack Rainey, Wellington Manager at Everybody Eats, to hear what he had to say about what makes the event so special:

'The Next Gen Cook Off is something truly unique to WOAP, it's the kind of event only Everybody Eats could host. Chefs love it because it’s a fun, mystery box challenge that pushes their creativity. They’re not just helping run a service, they’re leading it, creating the menu from scratch, and getting a proper taste of what it’s like to step up in a real kitchen. It’s a big moment for these young chefs, and we’re proud to be part of their journey.'

From rising stars in the kitchen to long-time volunteers and first-time diners, the Next Gen Cook Off brings together the best of Wellington hospitality - heart, creativity, and a whole lot of flavour.

When? Every Monday night in August.
Where? Everybody Eats, 60 Dixon Street, Te Aro.
How? Book via Visa Wellington On a Plate.

Come cheer them on and be a part of it.