Weike Zhao Biography – Weike Zhao Wiki

Weike Zhao, a talented Chinese chef, has made her mark as a contestant on the 2026 season of Great British Menu, airing on BBC Two. She currently holds the position of Head Chef at Wood Hall Hotel & Spa, located in Wetherby, West Yorkshire, which is part of the Hand Picked Hotels group. Weike took on this role in June 2022, bringing her culinary expertise to the 2-AA Rosette awarded restaurant.

Hailing originally from China, Weike Zhao embarked on her culinary career in Melbourne, Australia. She relocated there in 2008 to pursue a two-year commercial culinary course while gaining hands-on experience in a Japanese restaurant and a catering company. Alongside her culinary training, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Hotel Management, which helped shape her international culinary perspective.

Following her university education, Weike landed her first full-time chef position and gained valuable experience working in a prestigious one Chef Hat restaurant in Australia. Since moving to the UK, she has become a prominent name in Yorkshire’s dining scene, earning the Michelin Plate recognition twice.

At Wood Hall, Weike leads a team dedicated to sustainable practices and seasonal cooking. Her menus are a testament to her passion for blending the essence of the local environment with her Asian roots. She skillfully combines the finest seasonal British ingredients with vibrant Asian flavors, creating dishes that celebrate the best of Yorkshire.

Weike Zhao Age

Weike Zhao, also known as Shane, was born in China and her culinary journey has taken her around the world.

Weike Zhao Husband

Weike Zhao, featured on Great British Menu, shares her life with her husband, Ben Owen.

Weike Zhao Great British Menu

Chef Weike Zhao will appear on the BBC show Great British Menu series 21, representing the North East and Yorkshire. She is one of four chefs selected from the region to take part in the competition, alongside Jamie Keeble, Cal Byerley and Ryan McVay.

This year’s theme celebrates British film and filmmakers, with winning dishes due to be served at a star-studded banquet at St George’s Hall in Liverpool. Weike’s competition menu celebrates the North East and the films and actors from the region.

Weike Zhao said, “It’s a huge honour to represent North East and Yorkshire on BBC’s Great British Menu. The theme celebrating British film gave me the opportunity to explore the North East’s cultural identity through food whilst staying true to my style of combining Yorkshire’s seasonal ingredients with Asian flavours. It was an incredible experience to cook alongside other such talented chefs from the region.”

Julia Hands, Chair of Hand Picked Hotels, said, “We are very proud of Weike for representing the North East and Yorkshire in this national television cookery competition. At Hand Picked Hotels, we are committed to investing in talented individuals who demonstrate technical expertise and a clear culinary identity.”

Weike Zhao Nationality

Chef Weike Zhao is of Chinese nationality.

Ethnicity

She is of Asian ethnicity.

Instagram

Weike Zhao’s Instagram handle is @weike_z.