BOCUSE D'OR FINALE
- Presentation
- Tests
- Candidates
- Jury
- Partners
- Useful Infos
- 2023 results
Because France and the city of Lyon are a stage for the expression of all the world's cuisines,
Paul Bocuse imagined in 1987, on the occasion of the fair that has since become the Sirha Lyon, a global competition for chefs that breaks the codes of the moment.
Today, more than just a culinary competition, the Bocuse d’Or is a laboratory of excellence, an incubator of talents where commitment, passion, technique, and creativity reveal the greatest chefs of tomorrow. It is a unique springboard for those who wish to achieve international recognition.
A must-attend international event for 35 years, the Bocuse d’Or inspires the world of gastronomy every year by highlighting the evolution of global cuisine, driven in each edition by new generations of chefs. It is also the favorite place for many countries to promote their cuisine, their terroir, and their chefs.
The Bocuse d'Or 2025 promises to be full of new developments and more in tune than ever with the societal trends in cuisine. The prestigious competition is constantly evolving to strengthen its role as a laboratory of excellence and inspiration for the gastronomy of tomorrow.
BOCUSE D'OR 2025: HIGHLIGHTING GASTRONOMIC HERITAGES
The 24 candidates for the Grand Final of the Bocuse d’Or, which will take place on January 26 and 27, 2025, during Sirha Lyon, will have 5 hours and 30 minutes to distinguish themselves in the two signature challenges of the Bocuse d’Or, showcasing both their talents and the distinctive flavors of their countries. While this year the platter theme celebrates local gastronomy, the plate theme is evolving and must be presented initially on a platter.
For this 20th edition, the platter theme pays tribute to the founder of the competition and iconic chef, Paul Bocuse, who was passionate about local products, refined dishes, and game. The 24 candidates will have 5 hours and 30 minutes to highlight their culinary talent and expertise by working with venison, foie gras, and tea.
The main component of this platter theme, back of venison, must be presented in three pieces with three accompaniments. The first garnish will be a venison shoulder and foie gras pie, wrapped in a crispy pastry. The pie must be presented whole on the platter, and the foie gras should be recognizable both in taste and visually when cut. The second warm garnish will be entirely fruit-based and will feature a fruit from the candidate's country. Lastly, the third garnish will be served "on the side." Teams will need to prepare 16 closed, bi-colored ravioli, served hot, with a clarified venison consommé infused with tea, served in two teapots by the Maîtres d’Hôtel at the jury's table during the tasting.
This year, the plate theme evolves to celebrate a unique harmony between celery (both stalk and root), Stone bass, and lobster. Over 4 hours and 40 minutes, candidates will need to elevate these ingredients in a hot dish for 16 people, reflecting the culinary traditions of their country.
The Stone bass, presented on the plate, will be enhanced by the lobster and served with a warm lobster jus sabayon, prepared without a siphon and served by the Maîtres d’Hôtel at the jury's table during the tasting.
A major innovation: the celery will be presented on the platter before being cut and plated. The celeriac root must be offered in two identical whole pieces, while the celery stalk can be prepared according to the candidates’ wishes, as 16 identical individual garnishes, allowing for creativity.
Once the platter is presented to the jury, the chefs and their assistants have a maximum of 6 minutes to cut and arrange the celery-based elements within the final plate, which will feature the bass enhanced by lobster.
Running Order - 2025 Grand Final
Discover the candidates for the 2025 finale
Dan Arnold grew up in Brisbane, Queensland, where he completed his apprenticeship at Il Centro restaurant. He spent his early career at two more award-winning Brisbane restaurants, before leaving Australia in 2011 to learn French cuisine. After a year with Marc Meneau at L’Esperence, he joined Serge Vieira at his restaurant as Chef de Partie, moving up to Sous Chef in two years. During his six years at Restaurant Serge Vieira, Dan represented Australia at the Bocuse d’Or 2017, achieving our highest ever result at 8th place. On returning home to Australia with his French wife Amelie, Dan opened Restaurant Dan Arnold in Brisbane in 2018, followed by La Cache à Vin in 2022 and Pneuma in 2023. Dan stepped back into the competition zone as Coach for Team Australia at the Bocuse d’Or 2023 Grand Final in Lyon, and now makes a comeback as Candidate in the Bocuse d’Or Asia Pacific 2024. He dedicates candidacy to his friend, mentor and 2005 winner Serge Vieira, who sadly passed away last year.
Keith Pears
Keith Pears is the Corporate Executive Chef at Accencis Group and leader of the National team representing Canada at the next Bocuse d’Or Finals. Hailing from Vancouver and born into a family of chefs, Keith was destined to become immersed in the culinary field from a young age. After enrolling in culinary school at the age of 19, Keith quickly developed his skills in the kitchen and worked his way up the ranks throughout the years to master his craft. In 2017, he moved to Toronto to take on the title of Executive Chef at Delta’s flagship hotel, Delta Toronto. There, Keith played an instrumental role in shaping the hotel’s culinary excellence through his limitless creativity before opening Toronto’s first W Hotel in the prestigious Yorkville neighborhood, and recently being appointed Corporate Executive Chef at Accencis Group. Keith is no stranger to competition, and he has the resume to prove it. He’s competed in renowned culinary events like Best of the West, Gold Metal Plates, Bocuse d’Or National Selection, Garland International Shellfish Chef Challenge, and more. His most notable achievements include winning B.C. Chef of the Year, Food Network’s Chopped Canada, Canada’s Great Kitchen Party in Toronto and most recently, the National selection for the Bocuse d'Or competition. With more than 15 years of industry experience, Keith delivers memorable culinary experiences paired with a high level of cuisine. When he is not lined up at the farmers market for fresh ingredients, you can find Keith hunting for the freshest sneaker drop to add to his collection. He enjoys listening to all things Drake and supporting his favorite basketball team, the Toronto Raptors. He finds joy in exploring and often eats his way through Toronto’s new hot spots and local dives for inspiration. Once a part-time pop star turned chef, Keith’s goal in the kitchen is to be better than yesterday, hence his personal motto, “Strive for Perfection.”
Young Chilean chef, who innovates with the products of the country's vast ecosystems and dreams of bringing his country's gastronomy to Lyon to compete in the Bocuse d'Or.
Yafei Wang
It’s a tale as old as time really, ever since I was a child, I remember loving everything my mother cooked. Each dish had my hometown of Jiangsu’s unique flavors but also had elements that only my mother added, which made our family feel so special when we had her cooking. Ever since then, I wanted to be a chef to have that creative license with food – how to make it unique to each palate, what flavors best complement each other, and how the dish makes the person feel. The most important thing for me is how the food tastes, anything can be beautifully dressed, but if there is no flavor, it all falls flat. I can’t have my food or guests endure that fate, so I aim to find the delightful balance of having a dish that is flavorful but also aesthetically beautiful. My mentor taught me that if you’re happy when you’re cooking, it comes through to the food you make. I love making happy food because when I’m creating recipes, it’s almost like meditation, I leave all my worries outside of the kitchen and focus on making something that will give happiness to the recipient. Working as a chef is grueling but also highly rewarding. As I rose through the ranks in the culinary world, getting to the position of meeting guests was my favorite thing because it allowed me to gauge how they enjoyed the food that I created. It is most gratifying when I receive praise from guests because it solidifies my passion for cooking and my belief that “happy cooking makes happy food”.
Sebastian Holberg Svendsgaard
Stefani De Palma
Originally from Arcadia, California, Stefani De Palma moved to San Diego in 2007 to join the team at Addison Restaurant, directly out of culinary school. Over the years, De Palma worked her way up through the restaurant’s kitchen, ascending the ranks from Chef de Partie, Chef Tournant, Pastry Sous Chef to Sous Chef. In 2016, she assumed the Chef de Cuisine role, where she worked closely with Chef William Bradley to continue Addison's tradition of excellence, eventually helping the restaurant earn its third Michelin star in 2022.
Now, having won First Place at the Bocuse d’Or Team USA 2025 National Selection, Chef De Palma will begin training for the Bocuse d’Or Americas Selections in New Orleans this coming June 2024.
Ismo Sipeläinen
After several participation at the Bocuse d’Or, Ismo is the candidate for Team Finland for the second time! His adventure for Bocuse d’Or began as the commis for the team in 2010 in Geneva and continue to 2011 in Lyon. His first year as a candidate was in 2018/2019 where he came at the 4th position. He has a lot of experience thank to his previous participation at the Bocuse d’Or but also because he worked in a lot of restaurants where he was the chef. Now he has opened his own restaurant specialized in digging down to the roots of Finnish ingredients and cooking and interpreting the findings in a modern way. He also has his own private company to have time to do different and interesting projects.
Paul Marcon
Born in Auvergne in the center of France, Paul Marcon grew up in his parent’s kitchen in Saint Bonnet le Froid with respect of the nature. Cooking became quite fast an obvious vocation. With a strong competitive spirit, he participated at his first cooking competition, Worldskills France, at only 16 Years old winning the second place at the national selection. He reached a few years later the international final. After having worked in Michelin stared restaurant in Lyon, he moved 2 years working at restaurant AIRA** with chef Tommy Myllymaki, Silver Bocuse 2011. An experience which allowed him to discover different technics and improve his knowledge. He continued to compete even from Sweden and won in 2022 the Trophée Jean Delaveyne.
Roland Kelemen
Roland studied in a professional cooking school in Debrecen where he gets is diploma and begin to work at the Hotel Hunguest in Hajdúszoboszló. He has a lot of experience as sous-chef and chef in different hotels. It’s not his first participation in the Hungarian Bocuse d’Or, two years ago he attracted attention with his performance, but he couldn’t reach the podium. This year, he made it to the first place, and he got help from an older Hungarian Bocuse d’Or candidate Ádám Pohner, during his training.
Emmanuel Fortuno
Admiring since his youth the cuisine of his mother, typical cook from his native island, and influenced by a friend, Emmanuel Fortuno studied at the Constance Hospitality Centre, a highly regarded cooking and hotel school in Mauritius. After doing many courses alongside local starred chefs such as Kritesh Halkory (winner of the Bocuse d'Or Africa in 2022), he becomes the chef at the Blue Penny Cellar at Constance Belle Mare Plage, a large hotel complex. In 2025, he and his family will participate in the Bocuse d'Or and Emmanuel will compete for the Grand Finale, accompanied by his cousin Aninia Fortuno, his assistant.
Sindri Sigurðsson
Sindri comes from a small town on the western coast of Iceland, named Olafsvik. From a young age he’s always had great interest in food. He was brought up with the philosophy of cooking from scratch, using only the freshest ingredients, a principle that he’s adopted in his own cooking. At the age of 16, he began his culinary studies at one of Iceland’s most renowned restaurants, Perlan, where he graduated as a chef. Following his graduation, Sindri had the opportunity to assist Viktor Orn Andresson during his participation in the Bocuse d'Or competition.
Since seeing Viktor on the podium, it has been his goal to represent Iceland in Bocuse d’Or. In 2023, Sindri was honored with the title of Chef of the Year in Iceland, a testament to his unwavering dedication to cooking. This year Sindri and Sigurjon also founded their own company, Flora. Where they focus on curating private dining experiences and crafting culinary marvels for special events.
Marcelino Gomez
Marcelino Gomez studied gastronomy and pastry in Argentina where he gets a master’s degree in cooking, technique, product, and creativity and received a scholarship to work in the area of research and development. In 2017, he worked as a pastry chef in Copenhagen and in 2019 at Alchemist Restaurant as a research and development chef. In 2021, he was the coach of the Colombian team in The Bocuse d’Or Finale in Lyon. This year he is the candidate for Team Italy and hope to bring his team to the Final.
Ryuya Kainuma
Born in 1994 in Niigata, Japan A pioneer of modern cuisine, Jacques & Laurent POURCEL. At Sens & Saveurs, which have been conveying the delicate and airy "" POURCEL Cuisine"" in Tokyo, I have honed my skills and now marked my 10th year as a chef, serving as the sous-chef. As experienced the Bocuse d’Or with supporting Chef Ishii, Bocuse d’Or 2023 Japan candidate, for two years, it inspired me to compete on the same stage. Through dedication and experimentation, I have won the Japan national competition and became the candidate of Bocuse d’Or 2025. Although still developing as a chef, I aim to fully utilize my skills with Team JAPAN. My culinary philosophy values ""naturalness,"" ""simplicity,"" and ""connection."" I believe that perfect and extraordinary dishes emerge only when ingredients, tools, people, and time are all interconnected. Holding these values close to his heart, I am wholeheartedly committed to the Bocuse d'Or 2025, striving to deliver uncompromisingly delicious and beautiful dishes.
Latvia
Nils Ģēvele
Nils is a young chef from Latvia, who grew up in rural area where he learns how to cook for his family. Thanks to his hunter grandfather and fisherman father, he has always favored cooking with produce from their farm and garden. He started a cookery school to get a diploma and as the years went by, he got more opportunities and ended-up working in the best-known kitchen in Latvia for 3 years. He is currently the head chef of the restaurant “FERMA” where he also teaches classes for future chefs. For the moment he is focusing on his career and continuous learning in addition to the training for The Bocuse d’Or Europe.pe.
Marcelo Hisaki
Born in Mexico City to Japanese parents, Chef Marcelo Hisaki grew up surrounded by a diversity of flavor, texture, color, and tradition that combined both Japanese and Mexican culinary heritage. At an early age, his talent and discipline led him to earn a scholarship from Fondation Turquois Monaco to study French cuisine at the Lycée Hotelier de Monte Carlo and train in Michelin-starred restaurants Yoshi and Joël Robuchon, in Monte Carlo, Monaco. In 2013, Chef Marcelo and his wife Chef Reyna Venegas opened Restaurante Amores in Tecate, Baja California. Their culinary concept is influenced by Mexican, Japanese and French cultures, using local produce with respect, love, and creativity. He recently represented Mexico in the Bocuse d’Or Finale 2023, receiving the social commitment award as a recognition to his team’s involvement in support of migrants’ food insecurity in Baja California. He currently works as a mentor and teacher for new generations of culinary professionals at Culinary Art School and collaborates in the development of BRECHA, the first Mexican culinary innovation and research center.
Håvard Werkland
It’s in 2010 that Håvard decided to become a chef and start a cooking school. His parents weren’t really agreed with him because before this he has never made a meal. But his determination finally paid, in 2014 he won the Norwegian championship for chef apprentices. Since then, he never stops participating in competition and especially in Bocuse d’Or 2016/2017 where he was commis for Team Norway. This year, he’s going to represent is country in his hometown – Trondheim – for The Bocuse d’Or Europe and trying to bring Norway all the way to Lyon for the world Finale in 2025.
Marek Minarič
Marek is working as a chef in Marvogben restaurant in Denmark. I learn his knowledge thanks to his many experiences around the world (United Kingdom, Scotland, Norway, Austria, Czech Republic, Denmark, and Slovakia). He has traveled a lot to learn more about the different cultures, the gastronomy of each country but also the cooking method. Now is most precious wish being to succeed in Bocuse d’Or Europe to get the chance to go to Lyon for the Bocuse d’Or Finale in 2025.
Mathew Leong is the Executive Chef at RE-NAA, Norway’s only two-MICHELIN-starred restaurant in Stavanger, and Matbaren Bistro by RE-NAA. Born and raised in Singapore, Mathew moved to Norway to pursue his career at the age of 21. Despite his young age, Mathew brings with him more than a decade of experience. He had his first brush with culinary when he was 13 — under his teachers’ recommendations, he took part in his first culinary competition and clinched his first gold — and that experience ignited his passion towards gastronomy and determination to achieve culinary excellence. While pursuing his Diploma, Mathew then went on to work in many established hotels and Singapore kitchens such as Ritz Calton, Marina Mandarin, Tippling Club and Open Farm Community before his big move to Norway in 2016 to take on the role as Chef De Partie at RE-NAA. Prior to his current role, he was the Head Chef at one-MICHELIN-starred A’Laise located in Oslo, a role in which he was promoted to within three years. Achievements & Milestones In March 2023, Forbes released its eighth annual 30 Under 30 Europe list and Mathew was the sole Singaporean to have made it to the 2023 list under the Arts & Culture category. He is also the first Singaporean to be featured in Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe since the first edition was first introduced seven years ago. In July 2022, Mathew was invited back to Singapore by the Michelin Guide to present a six-course menu with five other renowned MICHELIN chefs based in Singapore and overseas at the Michelin Guide Singapore 2022: Star Revelation and Gala Dinner event and he was assigned to cook the main course. To date, he is the youngest chef to have been invited to cook for the Michelin Guide Gala event. In 2021, Mathew was the youngest candidate ever to represent Singapore to compete in Bocuse d’Or Final 2021, a biennial world chef championship in France which is the equivalent of the 'culinary' Olympics, and can be considered the world’s most prestigious culinary championship. He will be representing Singapore for the second time in Bocuse d’Or 2024/2025. Style of Cooking and Inspiration Mathew’s style of cooking is built on the solid foundation of Nordic and French cuisine together with his Asian background. Applying the skills he has learned from being in Norway, as well as influence from his Asian roots, his cooking style can be described as Nordic cuisine infused with Asian flavours. His creations are inspired by the best produce available from the culinary region Rogaland in Norway, using products from the sea, fjords, land, forests and mountains to offer a creative play with flavour through his food. Mathew’s culinary philosophy is that everything on the plate has to be “clean” yet flavourful. To him, creating a good sauce to go with the dish is vital as it holds an important component in providing that extra flavour. Mathew strongly believes that technology and innovation will shape the future of food and he is always looking at ways to apply tech innovation to create healthier, unique, more sustainable and personalised food.
Xuan Truong Vu
Chef Truong's unwavering commitment to his dream is fueled by his deep affection for his mother and his early admiration for the popular TV show ""The Iron Chef."" Every day, he tirelessly works towards his goals, continuously learning and generously sharing his knowledge with his team. Currently, Truong holds the esteemed position of Executive Chef at Ola Ola. Truong also serves as the Chef at Le Corto Sai Gon, and he takes immense pride in his achievements in various international culinary competitions. These remarkable accomplishments include: - In 2018, he achieved the second-best Young Talent Escoffier Asian title in Hong Kong. - He emerged as the champion of Escoffier Vietnam in 2018. - Truong is a valued member of Escoffier Vietnam. - He secured the championship at the International Catering Cup Vietnam in 2022. - His talent was recognized when he served the best coffee gourmand degustation at the International Catering Cup 2023 in Lyon, France. - Truong received the esteemed Outstanding Chef award from the Vietnam Department of Tourism for his contributions to the country's cuisine. Chef Truong lives by the motto, "Don't let your Dreams just be Dreams." He has proven that dreams can be transformed into reality, and he encourages others to be resilient, fearless, and determined in pursuing their own aspirations. Moreover, he aims to inspire others and share the joy of creating happiness through his passion for cooking.
CANDIDAT : Gustav Leonhardt
COMMIS : Noël Moglia
COACH : Peter Asp Jelksäter
After reaching 2nd place in Bocuse d’Or Europe 2018 and Bocuse d’Or Finale 2019 as the commis in Team Sweden, Gustav is coming back this year as the main candidate of his team. Since he is a chef, he won several price and medals from national and international competitions. We can note that he wins the Culinary Olympic with the Swedish Junior team in 2016 and 2020. In 2021, he was elected Swedish Chef of the year.
The two events are graded by two groups of expert judges: the cooking panel and the tasting panel.
Tasting panel
The tasting panel is made up of 24 members from each of the competing countries. Selected for their professionalism and open-mindedness, they are the privileged witnesses to the creativity of the Bocuse d'Or candidates. Their mission is all the more demanding in that it requires unflappable concentration and objectivity during the tasting.
Divided into 2 groups, the first group, made up of 12 jurors, will have the opportunity to taste and score the plate theme, while the second group, also made up of 12 members, will have the opportunity to taste and score the platter theme. ²They are seeking to reward creations that embody the perfect balance between purity of taste, respect for the product, attention to detail and, of course, creativity.
SCOTT PICKETT - Scott Picket group, TEAM AUSTRALIE
ALEX CHEN - Boulevard Kitchen, TEAM CANADA
PATRICIO QUENSE - Restaurant Ocean Pacific´s, TEAM CHILI
ALEX FU - TEAM CHINE
DOMINIQUE OUDIN - EXECUTIVE CHEF OF SOFITEL LEGEND, TEAM COLOMBIE
Dominique Oudin is recognized for his innovative approach and his ability to transform gastronomic concepts into memorable experiences. As Executive Chef of Sofitel Legend Santa Clara in Cartagena, he leads all aspects of the hotel's culinary operations with creativity and strategic vision. Sofitel Legend Santa Clara, an iconic hotel in South America, enjoys international recognition for its excellence. The restaurant 1621, the flagship of this establishment, ranks among the best in the world, placed second in the Travellers' Choice Awards 2024.
Born in France, Dominique combines a solid culinary heritage with a deep understanding of current expectations. His career has taken him to prestigious destinations such as Morocco, Dubai, Brazil, United Kingdom, and Mauritius. In Brazil, he received numerous accolades, including being named "Chef of the Year" by various guides and media.
As President of Bocuse d’Or Colombia, Dominique is actively committed to promoting Colombian gastronomy on the international stage and enhancing the country's culinary talent.
FRANCIS CARDENAU - TEAM DANEMARK
TOMMI TUOMINEN -Picnic Finland Oy, TEAM FINLANDE
Born in Nummela, Finland, in April 1977, Tommi Tuominen is a celebrated
Finnish chef. Beginning his culinary career in 1995, Tuominen quickly gained
recognition, playing a key role in competitions and establishing restaurant
Demo in 2003 as one of Finland's first chef-owned restaurants.
In 2007, Demo earned its first Michelin star, marking a significant milestone.
Tuominen now leads two Michelin-starred restaurants and manages four in
Helsinki, praised for creativity, quality, and mentoring young talent as a
socially sustainable employer.
Named "Chef of Chefs Finland" in 2021, Tuominen also serves as President of
the Bocuse d'Or Academy Finland, striving to bring Finnish cuisine to global
acclaim through mentorship and innovation. His career continues to inspire
and elevate gastronomy
ROMUALD FASSENET- Château Mont Joly, TEAM FRANCE
Excellence and curiosity have been the guiding principles throughout Romuald Fassenet’s career. From the kitchens of Matignon to those of the Tour d'Argent, as well as prestigious establishments in the United States and Germany, Romuald Fassenet was awarded the title of Meilleur Ouvrier de France in 2004. In 2007, he moved with his family to Château de Mont Joly in Sampans, Jura.
A Michelin-starred chef, he has also been the culinary advisor for the Michelin-starred Pashmina restaurant in Val Thorens since 2015. Passionate about sharing and teaching, Romuald Fassenet supported the Japanese team at the Bocuse d’Or from 2009 to 2013 (which won the Bocuse de Bronze) and the Australian team in 2017 (Best Promotion Award). Since 2023, he has been the President of Team France, dedicating himself for years to promoting French gastronomy.
BENCE DALNOKI - Stand Restaurant, TEAM HONGRIE
THRÁINN FREYR VIGFÚSSON - OX Restaurant and sumac, TEAM ISLANDE
Thrainn is from a small town in the north of Iceland but has lived and worked most of his life in the capital of Iceland Reykjavík, with a few stints abroad in high-end kitchens. Thrainn opened his two restaurants, ÓX and Sumac Grill + Drinks, under the same roof in 2017 in downtown Reykjavik. Then in late 2022, Óx was relocated to a new space, only a few blocks away, fronted by the new speakeasy bar Amma Don. ÓX is an intimate 17 seat kitchen-counter restaurant where the focus is Icelandic ingredients in a multi course tasting menu. ÓX was awarded one Michelin star in 2022, and Sumac Grill + Drinks remains on the Michelin recommended list.
Thrainn was the Icelandic candidate in Bocuse d´Or 2011 and has also coached 3 candidats from Iceland.
ENRICO CRIPPA - Spiazza Duomo Alba, TEAM ITALIE
After graduating Enrico Crippa began his culinary journey in via Bovesin de la Riva, the historic restaurant of Gualtiero Marchesi, certainly the person who most influenced his training. Marchesi in 1996 entrusted him with the opening of his restaurant in Kobe and for 3 years Crippa lived and worked in Japan, a place that would strongly influence his cuisine. Returned to Europe he made experiences in some of the most well-known European chefs including Michel Bras and Ferran Adria.
In 2003 he met the Ceretto family who involved him in a new project in the wine district of the Langhe: two restaurants La Piola, a contemporary trattoria and Piazza Duomo, where Crippa can develop his experiences and creativity.
3 are the Michelin stars, obtained in just 7 years, alongside other international successes.
His pure cuisine, focused onprecise manual skills, and chases the seasonality even brought to the exaltation of everyday ingredients picked directly in his celebrated and beloved vegetable garden that he has been following for over 10 years and from which he draws the hundreds of vegetables, perfumes and spices that make up his dishes.
KENICHIRO SEKIYA - Tzuco, TEAM JAPON
After graduating from culinary school and working at a hotel, he moved to France in 2002.
In 2006, he began working at "L'ATELIER de Joël Robuchon" in Paris.
At the age of 26, he was promoted to sous-chef following a recommendation from Mr. Joël Robuchon.
In 2018, he became the first Japanese chef in 34 years to win the top prize at the “52ème PRIX CULINAIRE INTERNATIONAL LE « TAITTINGER » / 52nd Le TAITTINGER International Culinary Competition h, in Paris.
In 2021, he was appointed Executive Chef at "Château Restaurant Joël Robuchon."
In 2023, he became the first Japanese to receive the " Meilleur Ouvrier de France (M.O.F.) / Best Craftman of France“ in the Culinary Division.
In 2024, he was awarded the "Chevalier of Ordre du Mérite Agricole/ Order of Agricultural Merit " by the French Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries.
In the same year, he led “Restaurant Joël Robuchon " to achieve the remarkable feat of receiving three Michelin stars for 18 consecutive years in the Michelin Guide Tokyo 2025.
Chef Kenichiro SEKIYA dedicates to pass on French cuisine as a cultural heritage and is passionate about nurturing the next generation of chefs.
DINāRS ZVIDRINš - Entresol, TEAM LETTONIE
JERRY BASTIAAN - The Third Eye, TEAM ILE MAURICE
Jerry Bastiaan (Dutch, 1969) has worked both nationally and internationally at some of the world's finest establishments. He has built a proven track record of running successful and innovative kitchens in prestigious establishments including the Amstel InterContinental Amsterdam (two Michelin stars), Hilton Amsterdam, Restaurant Vossius (one Michelin star), and Grand Hotel Karel V Utrecht (one Michelin star). His international career expanded to the Capital Club DIFC Dubai (UAE), Saffron Hospitality (Azerbaijan), and Outrigger Resorts (Mauritius) before establishing his own hospitality consultancy firm, Small Potato Ltd.
JUAN CARLOS GAYTAN ROMERO - TEAM MEXIQUE
KAMAL RAHAL ESSOULAMI - Rahal Group, TEAM MAROC
BRETT McGREGOR - CompassNZ LTD, TEAM NOUVELLE-ZELANDE
Brett McGregor has gone from strength to strength when it comes to the New Zealand food industry - culture, books, travel, and surprising people with his culinary delights. His passion for the industry has grown as has his food world. Brett began his career in Education before embarking on his food journey. Masterchef NZ was a catalyst to propel him into the culinary world. Now its all about ensuring the next generation of foodies are supported and motivated to continue their food journey.
Brett’s the author of 5 amazing cookbooks all of which garnered the accolade of being a finalist in the Gourmand international Book awards. It’s easy to see where Brett gets his passion and knowledge - travel and people. An avid learner and educator Brett’s made it his mission to continue to learn and develop his culinary skills one mouthful at a time. But it is through travel and opportunities in some of the worlds best kitchens that his craft was refined.
He is also one of the founding members of the Compass NZ Culinary council wherever evolving food trends and tastes as well as the health of the industry are discussed with a “Where to now?” attitude with respect to the future of our food world. Brett also consults and helps create easy and exciting menus to ignite your local café, restaurant and Inspire your staff.
Brett’s life is not all about work, his Ambassadorial roles keep him grounded and he loves his friendships with MND New Zealand, Blue September, and Cure kids.
SKEIE GEIR - Brygga 11, TEAM NORVEGE
BRUNO MENARD - TEAM SINGAPOUR
For as long as he can remember, Bruno always wanted to be a Chef. He inherited his passion for cooking from his family who was already far involved in to the hospitality industry: his father was a famous chocolatier in France, before his brother took over the family business and his sister is at the head of a hotel in Paris. After more than 35 years, his passion for cooking remains intact
In 2002, restaurant “The Dining Room” at the Ritz Carlton Buckhead in Atlanta, Georgia (USA) is awarded 5 stars by the Mobil Travel Guide and 5 diamonds by the AAA (American Automobile Association).
In 2008, restaurant “L’Osier” in Tokyo (Japan) receives 3 stars by the Michelin Guide. One of the nine restaurant in Tokyo awarded with the highest recognition of 3 stars straightaway at the launching of the first edition of Michelin Guide Tokyo.
In 2013, he launches his own culinary consulting firm based in Singapore: Bruno Menard Pte. Ltd.
In 2015, He is one of the three judges on the television show, MasterChef Asia – launching in 2015 across Asia, on Lifetime.
In 2015, He create the Bocuse d’Or Academy Singapore and is nominated as President of Bocuse d’Or Asia Pacific by the Bocuse d’Or International Organization Committee (I.O.C.) for the continental selection during the Food&Hotel Asia 2016 (FHA) in Singapore.
In 2018, He join Junon Restaurant in Hong Kong as Food Director and became the Executive Chief Asia Pacific for the Vranken-Pommery Monopole.
In 2019, Mr Philippe Briand, the mayor of the city of Saint Cyr Sur Loire, France, name a street of the new area of the city under his name. Chef Bruno is very humble and honoured by this high recognition of his hard works to spread the “French Art de vivre” by promoting french producers, their know how and traditions.
With over 20 years of experience in Asia and more than 15 years in Europe and the USA, Chef Bruno now shares his experience across the world.
PETER DURANSKY - Das Loft, TEAM SLOVAQUIE
Peter Duransky started cooking in 1999/2000, at the age of 15, as a commis at the Le Monde restaurant in Bratislava, Slovakia (it was ranked among the best restaurants in the country for 5 years).
He then spent years in the country's best restaurants, Camouflage and Albrecht.
In 2012, he moved to Vienna to open a new concept in the city centre, the Medusa restaurant, where he spent six years as head chef.
During his career, he has worked in Austria, Slovakia, Norway and the Czech Republic.
He has been working in Austria and Vienna for almost 13 years.
In 2019, he was awarded his first Michelin star in Vienna, becoming the first Slovak chef to receive this distinction.
In 2021, he won the national selection for the Bocuse d'Or Slovakia.
In 2022, he and his team represented Slovakia for the second time at the European Bocuse d'Or in Budapest.
From 2023 onwards, he will be President of the Bocuse d'Or Slovakia.
In 2024, we reached a historic moment for our country by reaching the Grand Final in Lyon 2025.
TOMMY MYLLYMAKI - Aira, TEAM SUEDE
CLARE SMITH - Core by Clare Smyth, TEAM ROYAUME-UNI
DEVIN KNELL - Thomas Keller Restaurant Group, TEAM ETATS-UNIS
SAKAL PHOEUNG - Le Corto, TEAM VIETNAM
Kitchen Jury
The cooking jury is made up of 12 international chefs. They are responsible for ensuring compliance with the competition rules and the technical constraints specific to each theme. They are responsible for ensuring the professionalism of the candidates, their management and organisation in the kitchen, the non-wastage of foodstuffs and their technical skills.
Above all, they are there to support and advise the chefs at every stage of the competition. This presence at their side encourages them to gain self-confidence, to better apprehend their participation and thus have the best possible experience.
Patrik Jaros, chef cuisinier et consultant de renom, s'est fait connaître en 1994 en tant que plus jeune chef étoilé Michelin d'Allemagne. Il a obtenu la troisième place au prestigieux Bocuse d'Or en 1995 et a ensuite eu un impact significatif sur le monde culinaire. Aujourd'hui, Patrik gère plusieurs restaurants et travaille comme consultant, développant des concepts alimentaires innovants et des programmes de formation. Il est également un auteur prolifique de livres de cuisine et un styliste culinaire. Il est actuellement copropriétaire de Červenẏ Jelen à Prague, où il continue de mêler son amour de la gastronomie à sa passion pour la culture de la bière artisanale.
Mona Mosly est une chef saoudienne d'avant-garde et une innovatrice culinaire. Née d'une mère syrienne, elle a grandi dans la cuisine du Moyen-Orient et s'est ensuite formée au Cordon Bleu de Londres et au Plaza Athénée de Paris sous la direction du chef Philippe Marc. Mona est la première Saoudienne à s'être imposée dans le monde culinaire, en devenant juge dans l'émission Top Chef Middle East pendant six saisons. Elle dirige aujourd'hui des collaborations culinaires prestigieuses, notamment une refonte du menu des cinémas VOX, mêlant tradition et modernité pour redéfinir la gastronomie saoudienne.
Giovanna Grossi, the youngest and first female Brazilian chef to win both the Bocuse d'Or Brazil and Latin America, made history by securing her spot at the prestigious global finals in Lyon at just 23. She honed her skills in São Paulo before training at the renowned Institut Paul Bocuse in France. Her career includes working alongside culinary legends like Anne-Sophie Pic and Claude Troisgros. Now leading Animus Restaurante in São Paulo, recognized by the Michelin Guide, Giovanna also presides over Bocuse d'Or Brazil, inspiring and mentoring the next generation of chefs while elevating Brazilian cuisine on the world stage.
Main partners
BE WTR is an ultra-filtered, fresh, still or sparkling water premium brand, thanks to sustainable and innovative solutions. Designed to meet the expectations of demanding establishments, BE WTR is the benchmark for quality hydration in hotels, restaurants, offices and homes.
True to its commitment to sustainable development, BE WTR eliminates single-use waste by adopting circular local bottling solutions and returnable glass bottles. Its solutions guarantee zero waste consumption and a short circuit close to its customers, placing sustainability at the heart of every experience.
To meet the varied needs of establishments, BE WTR also offers elegant, high-performance systems. Thanks to its exclusive AQTiV technology, the water is oxygenated to offer a unique taste experience, close to that of natural springs.
Official partner of the prestigious Bocuse d'Or, BE WTR accompanies top chefs and culinary events, enhancing every tasting experience. Already established in key destinations such as Switzerland, France, Canada, the United Arab Emirates and Singapore, BE WTR continues its international expansion to satisfy a demanding and committed clientele.
Main partner of the Bocuse d'Or for over 25 years, Convotherm provides cutting-edge technology for combi ovens, focusing on innovation and sustainability. Our philosophy, "Advancing Your Ambitions," reflects our passion and commitment to delivering the best combi oven solutions to meet the diverse needs of chefs worldwide. Designed in Germany.
METRO is a leading international food wholesaler specializing in meeting the needs of hotels, restaurants, and caterers (HoReCa), as well as independent traders.Globally, METRO serves approximately 15 million customers who benefit from the company’s unique multichannel approach: customers can purchase their goods in one of the wholesale stores in their region as well as via delivery (Food Service Distribution, FSD) – all supported and connected digitally.
The partnership between METRO and Bocuse d’Or dates back to 2005, when the company became a sponsor in its home country. Since 2013, METRO has become Main Sponsor and official supplier of ingredients for the Bocuse d’Or World Finals and, with its expertise in food and gastronomy, makes a significant contribution to the preparation and implementation of the competition.
From 2012 to 2022, METRO sponsored every Bocuse d’Or European Final and since 2022, METRO has been the main sponsor of the European Selections.
An American company founded in 1971 in Canonsburg, All-Clad has built on its heritage of craftsmanship and quickly established its reputation in the world of professional gastronomy. For over 50 years, All-Clad has been constantly innovating to design and manufacture premium cookware that meets the requirements of the world's greatest professional chefs. The brand joined Groupe SEB in 2004.
Platinum partners
Bonna Premium Porcelain, having 40 years of experience in production, launched with a vision, which is to become a solution partner to HoReCa professionals. Over the years, Bonna having the advantage of being based in Turkey, distributed its wide range of products to more than 100 countries on all five continents to serve extensive variety of sector professionals from chain restaurants, hotels to Michelin-starred chefs. Bonna continuously offers design and functionality driven products, which have received more than 35 international awards so far, with a commitment to contribute to a sustainable future and generates inspiring user experiences every day.
For over 90 years, BRAGARD has symbolized the union of excellence and elegance. More than just clothing, Bragard is committed to passionate professionals, creating pieces that embody the quest for perfection.
Combining tradition and innovation, BRAGARD develops collections designed to accompany all trades with elegance and performance.
Dedicated to the passion of those who live their art, we are much more than a brand: we are a true partner of excellence!
For more than 30 years, French frozen bakery manufacturer Bridor has been combining the power of large-scale manufacturing with the virtuosity of bakery expertise to offer to Chefs high-quality breads and Viennese pastries inspired by bakery cultures worldwide.
Since 1945, Elle & Vire®, based in the heart of the Normandy grove in France, has been offering creams and butters known for their exceptional taste and technical expertise that meets the standards of the most demanding chefs. It is the combination of unique creamery craftsmanship and a selection of exceptional raw materials that enables us to offer chefs the best products. As a partner of Excellence, Elle & Vire® supports today's and tomorrow's greatest chefs throughout their careers, from their training to Excellence competitions. We are proud to be a Major Partner of the World Pastry Cup and a Platinum Partner of the Bocuse d'Or.
As the official champagne of the competition, Pommery is at the very heart of each stage of the competition from the selection to the final celebrations. Our commitment to this event highlights our long-term connection to the world of haute cuisine and of the values we share.
@Rougiegastronomie is a proud partner of Bocuse d'Or Americas 2024. Preferred by Chefs all over the world, Maison Rougié does not only offer the best quality Foie Gras, they also support Chefs in their daily challenges. Which is why Rougié founded the @bocusedorwinners and we will have the honour to award the Best Commis Award to one of the rising stars of the competition. May the Foie be with you! @bocusedorguatemala, @legourmets, @chefscanada, @bocuseargentina, @mentorbkb, @team.bolivia_bocuse.dor, @bocusedorcolombiaoficial, @achigachile, @bocusedormexico #BocusedOr #BocusedOrEurope #Gastronomy #ChefsCompetition #RougieGastronomie.
Partenaires premium
The Bocuse d'Or Winners Association was founded in 2000 with the support of Maison Rougié. Its primary purpose is to bring together all chefs who have stood on the podium at the final. It serves as an important support and promotional tool for the competition, thanks to the involvement of chefs in their own countries and during various competition events.
Capfruit was founded back in 1999 in the Drôme region and aims at offering a wide range of fruit based ingredients for culinary and pastry professionals. Building on its know-how, Capfruit supports pastry chefs, cooks, caterers, but also ice cream makers, confectioners and chocolatiers by providing them with natural, authentic and sometimes original flavors to make their recipes.
Each year, more than 6,000 tonnes of fruit purees, coulis or even zests are delivered to them in about 60 countries around the world thanks to a network of specialized distributors.
Capfruit, partner committed from the land to the plate.
Dammann Frères, the French signature of tea and herbal infusions.
Since ever, Dammann Frères has been sourcing worldwide a high selection of finest teas and plants with great aromatic richness.
Its employees are proud to carry on this heritage and to produce in house and on any single step the art of blending for unique creations from the leaf to the cup.
For 35 years, Green Care Professional sustainable cleaners have been ensuring flawless and responsible hygienic conditions on a daily basis for foodservice professionals. Our innovative, high-performance hygiene solutions accompany the prestigious Bocuse d'Or culinary competition, supporting candidates and chefs in their environmental initiatives.
Nespresso Professional offers coffee solutions tailored to the specific needs of professionals : a selection of 22 high quality coffees and a range of high-performance professional machines.
Nespresso is part of the global B-Corp movement towards a more inclusive, fairer and more regenerative economy.
Sosa Ingredients is a world leader in the manufacture and distribution of high-quality ingredients for cooking and pastry-making.
Its aim is to make gastronomy an ever more modern and exciting experience.
Founded in Catalonia in 1967, Sosa Ingredients offers a wide range of products designed to meet the needs and ambitions of chefs in more than 80 countries around the world.
Plato is the first service cobiot designed in Paris, made in France, sourced in Europe to support staff in the hospitality and restaurant sector by performing repetitive and low-value-added tasks such as bussing. Plato relieves waiters and improves their working conditions. This allows the front-of-house teams to focus on customer relations.
A partner of taste artisans since 1922, and a pioneer and specialist in the world of chocolate, Valrhona defines itself today as a company whose mission statement “Together, good becomes better” conveys the strength of its commitment.
Together with its employees, chefs, and cocoa producers, Valrhona creates the best in chocolate to shift the status quo towards a fairer, more sustainable cocoa industry and gastronomy that tastes great, looks great and does great things for the world.
Building long-term partnerships directly with cocoa producers, sharing know-how and looking for the next cocoa innovation are the challenges that drive us to do better every day.
Working alongside chefs, Valrhona promotes craftsmanship and supports them in their quest for uniqueness by constantly pushing the limits of creativity.
Thanks to our commitments, we are proud to have obtained the highly demanding B Corporation® certification for the second time in December 2023. It rewards the world's most engaged companies that put equal emphasis on economic, societal, and environmental performance.
Choosing Valrhona means committing to responsible chocolate. 100% of the cocoa that we use can be traced back to our 16,979 producers, which provides the assurance of knowing where the cocoa came from, who harvested it, and that it was produced in good conditions. Choosing Valrhona means committing to a chocolate that respects both people and the planet. Together good becomes better.
Winterhalter is the leading designer and manufacturer of sustainable, commercial warewashing systems for the catering and hospitality industry. Our range of undercounter glass and dishwashers, passthrough, utensil, single and multitank diswashers are the best available on the market.
The Institut Lyfe (Lyon for Excellence, Education, Exploration, Experience), an affiliated member of the Conférences des Grandes Écoles, trains committed and responsible decision-makers in the hotel, restaurant, culinary arts and pastry-making professions. Over the past 30 years, it has built up a unique ecosystem of initial education, research and vocational training. It currently welcomes 1,200 students of 72 nationalities.
Institut Lyfe is the first private higher education establishment in the hotel and catering sector to be recognised by the French Ministry of Higher Education and Research, with its state-approved Bachelors in International Management. It is also the only school in France to have a Michelin-starred training restaurant, a 5* hotel-school and a Research Centre whose scientific work contributes to the quality of its teaching, with a forward-looking vision of the Hospitality professions.
In 2015, Gérard and Gilles Pélisson created a foundation, the Institut Lyfe Foundation, under the aegis of the Fondation de France, to support the Institut Lyfe in its development and implement a scholarship programme to make its programmes of excellence accessible to as many people as possible.
ADRESS
SIRHA LYON
Eurexpo Lyon
Boulevard des Droits de l'Homme
69500 BRON
France
HOW TO GET THERE
Find all info on the Eurexpo website.
PARTICIPATE
Follow us Live on the website or on our social media !
CONTEST DATES
Sundy 26 and Monday 27, January 2025
Awards Ceremony on Monday 27, January 2025 at 6:00pm
If you have any question, don't hesitate to contact us :
[email protected]
Gold
Denmark
Silver
Norway
Bronze
Hungry
Special Prize Theme on platter :
Sweden
Special Prize "Feed the kids" :
France
Social Commitment Awards:
Mexico
Best commis :
Leon Haarberg NILSEN (Norway)