We've seen the best of England, Scotland and Wales – now it's time for Northern Ireland to show off its finest chefs. All newcomers to the competition but very accomplished chefs in their own right, we're really keen to see what they whip up and if they hit the brief. Take a look at who's been selected to compete for the country in Great British Menu 2019.

Originally from Dundrum in Mourne, Alex cut his teeth in some seriously respected Michelin-starred kitchens, including Deanes, Petrus, Claridge’s and The Cliff House in Ardmore. He’s been the head chef at Deanes EIPIC for two years now, focusing on local, seasonal produce presented in a beautiful and precise way. We’re interested to see how he’ll channel that into his Great British Menu dishes.

Chris has been at Number 6 for eight years now, and he credits it with turning him into the disciplined chef he is today. Originally from Hillsborough in Co Down, what sets him apart is his expert knowledge of butchery, thanks to a three-year stint at O’Shea’s in London. Knowing how to cook the best Cornish fish and seafood as well as meat is certainly a boon (and perhaps why he was named as The Observer’s Young Chef of the Year 2018) – we’re keen to see how he fares on Great British Menu.

Glen has worked at some incredible restaurants around the world (including Alinea in Chicago and Noma in Copenhagen), but he returned to his home county of Fermanagh to open 28 Darling St, his own restaurant. His focus is on locally sourced produce, turning humble ingredients into spectacular dishes in a relaxed, welcoming setting. We wonder whether he’ll be recreating some of the theatrics found in restaurants like Alinea for Great British Menu.