The Indonesian Chapter of Disciple Escoffier announced the results of The Young Talent Escoffier Culinary Competition held Friday, 03 May 2024, at Politeknik International Bali.
The prestigious annual contest allows young culinary talents to showcase their gastronomic skills. As in years past, this year’s event did not fail to dazzle and amaze observers via an enthralling display of culinary expertise and innovation.
Disciples Escoffier Indonesia is a non-profit association affiliated with Disciples Escoffier International, established in Nice, France, in 1954. Dedicated to advancing the culinary arts and inculcating new knowledge, Disciples Escoffier Indonesia upholds the esteemed legacy of the legendary Chef Auguste Escoffier and classic French cuisine.
Founding members of the Indonesian branch of the Association include Chefs Gilles Marx of Amuz and Stefu Santosos of Aprez Jkt, Chris Salans of Mozaic Bali, Alexander Chong of The Laguna Bali, Justin Maute of Maya Bali, and Aurelien Del Rio of Warung Gouthe Bali.
At the heart of the competition lies the essence of classic French cuisine, echoing the principles championed by Disciples Escoffier. Contestants were tasked with creating a masterpiece recipe of red snapper stuffed in a puffed pastry crust, a dish long synonymous with French gastronomy. In preparing the dessert within 3 hours and 30 minutes, participants demonstrated their technical skills and creativity before a blue-ribbon panel of judges.
In addition to a Classic French Cuisine Challenge, contestants were also required to present a contemporary twist via an “Imperatrice Rice Pudding” – a fusion of innovation and tradition, reflecting the evolving landscape of modern gastronomy.
The panel of esteemed judges included honorary Hans Christian of August Jakarta Restaurant (Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024), Jean-Yves Leuranguer, and Fabrice Prochasson—both Meilleur Ouvrier de France (Best Craftsman of France). The honorary judges brought a wealth of culinary expertise to the event and provided invaluable insights and critiques to aspiring young kitchen talents.
Top Winner I Wayan Nara from Apurva Kempinski Hotel Surrounded by Judges
Hans Christian commented, “Seeing so many young cooks with so much drive and passion in this competition is uplifting. Support for this platform is needed, now more than ever, to keep igniting the fire on the young generations.”
The winner of the competition will enjoy the honor of representing Indonesia at the Asia Pacific Finals in 2025. This golden opportunity paves the way to the ultimate culinary stage—the World Finals in France in 2026. Following in the footsteps of local culinary luminaries, such as Chef Kadek from Kempinski Bali, who will represent Indonesia and Asia at the upcoming Young Talents Escoffier World Final in Paris.
The 2024 Young Talent Escoffier Culinary Competition ended with I Wayan Nara from Apurva Kempinski Hotel winning top honors, Michael Samuel from Umana Hotel second, and Calvin Suciawan from Bonito Restaurant third.
Meanwhile, the jury bestowed all nine competitors a range of prizes.
The Disciples Escoffier Association seeks to promote culinary excellence internationally and in Indonesia by bringing people together to celebrate French cuisine via culinary competitions, educational activities, and fundraising charity events.
Membership in Disciples Escoffier Indonesia is open to members of the public who share in the vision and mission of the Association.
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