Applications for S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition 2024-25, the world’s most exciting culinary talent search, are now open.
The Competition, returning for a sixth edition after a successful showing in 2022-23, allows young chefs to showcase their unique skills, talent and creativity on a global stage, with a signature dish of their creation.
Initial applications will be assessed by ALMA, the International School of Italian Culinary Arts, which will draw up a shortlist of competitors ahead of the Regional Finals. The young chefs who impress there will get the chance to cook for a Jury of the world’s best chefs at the Grand Finale in Milan, in pursuit of the ultimate prize: the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Award, won by young Portuguese chef Nelson Freitas in 2023.
“It was an amazing experience. I feel that I've grown in a professional and personal way, discovering new horizons and a renewed motivation for the future,” says Freitas, who works at the Fifty Seconds restaurant in Lisbon.
To apply, young chefs under 30 years of age who have worked in a restaurant for at least a year have until 19 June to submit a recipe for a signature dish that expresses their personal vision, beliefs and creativity.
All eyes in the gastronomic world will be on the Competition, one of the biggest networking events in the culinary calendar, as a showcase for the game-changing talent of the future, with the most influential names in gastronomy in attendance throughout the stages.
Collateral awards
Participants have the opportunity to compete for three collateral awards alongside the main prize:
The S.Pellegrino Social Responsibility Award, voted for by the Sustainable Restaurant Association, is awarded to the young chef whose signature dish best represents the principle that food is at its best when it’s the result of socially responsible practices;
The Acqua Panna Connection in Gastronomy Award, voted for by the Competition mentors, is given to the young chef who best highlights both the traditional culinary practices of their region and their modern vision;
And the Fine Dining Lovers Food for Thought Award, voted for by FDL readers, which is given to the young chef who best represents their personal beliefs with a signature dish.
All participants also automatically become members of the inspiring global community, the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy, with access to unparalleled personal and career development opportunities.
If you think you’ve got what it takes to win (or you know someone who does), don’t delay, apply now.
