One of the culinary world’s most celebrated festivals is set to make its return. Northcote’s Obsession will be back from 23 January to 8 February 2026, bringing 17 nights of extraordinary dinners crafted by 20 world-class chefs who, together, hold 25 Michelin stars. Once again, the Ribble Valley will take its place as a global focal point for gastronomic talent, creativity and collaboration.
At the centre of it all is Northcote, the luxury Lancashire hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant led by chef patron-director Lisa Goodwin-Allen. Obsession26’s line-up gathers exceptional chefs from across the globe—Chicago, Dubai, Amsterdam, Dublin, London and beyond—each bringing their own distinct identity and flair to the Northcote kitchen.
The Experience
Each evening begins with a Louis Roederer Collection 246 Champagne reception, followed by a bespoke multi-course dinner. Guests can also opt for a wine flight curated by Northcote’s managing director Craig Bancroft and his award-winning wine team. Northcote recently retained its Spectator Two Glass Wine Award, reflecting the breadth and quality of a cellar that spans Burgundy, Spain, Portugal and beyond.
The hotel’s bar becomes a vibrant focal point during the festival, serving specially created Obsession cocktails inspired by that evening’s chef and menu.
The Lineup
Friday 23 January: Lisa Goodwin-Allen, Northcote, Ribble Valley (1 star)
Saturday 24 January: David Taylor, Grace & Savour, West Midlands (1 star)
Sunday 25 January: Jason Atherton & Spencer Metzger, Row on 5, London (1 star)
Monday 26 January: Damien Grey, Liath, Co Dublin (2 stars)
Tuesday 27 January: Angelo Sato, Humble Chicken, London (2 stars)
Wednesday 28 January: Nathan Davies, Vraic, Isle of Guernsey
Thursday 29 January: Gregoire Berger, Kraken, Dubai
Friday 30 January: Allister Barsby, Hide and Fox, Kent (2 stars)
Saturday 31 January: Paul Proffitt, Pearl by Paul Proffitt, Denmark (1 star)
Sunday 1 February: Kim Ratcharoen, Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, London (3 stars)
Monday 2 February: John Chantarasak, AngloThai, London (1 star)
Tuesday 3 February: Tom Spenceley, The Ledbury, London (3 stars)
Wednesday 4 February: Alex Verhoeven, Hert, Belgium (1 star)
Thursday 5 February: Bas Van Kranen, Flore, Netherlands (2 stars + green star)
Friday 6 February: Sujan Sarkar, Indienne, Chicago (1 star)
Saturday 7 February: Jorge Paredes, OMA, London (1 star)
Grand Finale – Sunday 8 February:
John Williams MBE, The Ritz, London (2 stars)
Adam Byatt, Trinity, London (1 star)
Phil Howard, Elystan Street, London (1 star)
Obsession first launched in 2001 as a celebration of superb food, great wine and the camaraderie of chefs. While the event has grown significantly since that inaugural year, its core philosophy remains unchanged: to deliver an unforgettable dining experience shaped by some of the most exciting culinary voices from around the world.
Lisa Goodwin-Allen said: “Every year, Obsession grows in ambition and creativity. It’s where the best in the world come together to create, collaborate and celebrate what makes gastronomy so exciting. After marking our 25th anniversary last year, the excitement and momentum are stronger than ever. The energy and passion that fills the kitchen during Obsession is electric; it’s an experience that stays with you long after the last dish is served. Now, with our new owners, Alf and Clare Ellis, at the helm, Obsession26 is set to be even more special. Their vision and support are helping us elevate Obsession to new heights, making it not just a celebration of world-class food, but an unforgettable experience for every guest who joins us.”
Several chefs set to appear in 2026 also shared their anticipation.
John Chantarasak of Michelin-starred AngloThai in London said: “As a long-time admirer of Obsession and chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen, I am thrilled to join the line-up of chefs for Obsession26, bringing the bold flavours and cooking of AngloThai to Northcote. It’s astonishing to read the previous chefs’ names who have graced the Northcote kitchen over the last 25 years of Obsession. I am humbled to chalk my name alongside so many great chefs – a true bucket list moment in my career.”
Chef Sujan Sarkar of Chicago’s one-star Indienne added: “It’s an honour to be part of Northcote’s Obsession26 line-up. The event has such an incredible legacy. I’m excited to share my flavours and stories alongside inspiring chefs from around the world, while also learning from and connecting with the creativity that defines Obsession each year. Thank you to chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen for the invitation and for curating such an inspiring celebration of gastronomy.”
Nathan Davies of Vraic, Isle of Guernsey, commented: “We’re delighted to be invited back to take part in this amazing event and to be getting back into the Northcote kitchen, and we’re just as excited to enjoy the Northcote breakfast, as well as see some familiar, friendly faces. As always, we will bring smoke and fire and the flavour of our new home in Guernsey.”
Phil Howard of Elystan Street, London, who returns for the finale alongside John Williams MBE and Adam Byatt, said:
“I cannot wait to join forces with these two titans of the industry to showcase some old school magic to the Northcote audience. It’s been a while, but I am looking forward to cooking up a storm at Obsession once again.”
Both images of Lisa Goodwin-Allen © Olivia Brabbs
Obsession26 Sponsors
Headline Sponsor: Gastronomy Plus
Technology Sponsor: Deepbridge Capital
Restaurant Sponsor: San Pellegrino
Cook School Sponsor: Gaggenau
Kitchen Sponsor: Electrolux Professional
Film Sponsor: Wellocks
Digital Sponsor: LaFont / CCS
Luxury Car Sponsor: Bentley Manchester
Program Sponsor: Sarah Laytons
Hotel Room Sponsor: Taylors of Harrogate
Hotel Sponsor: Prestige Beds / Hypnos
Key Sponsors: Double Dutch, Saicho Tea, Kings Caviar
The official charity partner for Obsession26 is Hospitality Action.
Tickets
Tickets are now on sale at £235 per person, including a Louis Roederer Champagne and canapé reception, a five-course menu, coffee and petit fours. Wine flights can be added from £70 per person.
For more information, visit northcoteobsession.com.
