Young culinary talents set to battle it out

Today is an exciting day for the hospitality industry in Thailand as 12 young culinary talents are competing in the final round of the long-awaited “Young Chef Young Waiter Young Mixologist Thailand” competition at Pullman Bangkok Hotel G.
Held for the first time in the Kingdom with the support from Gourmet One Food Service, the national competition is part of the “World Young Chef Young Waiter Young Mixologist Competition (World YYY)”, which was established in the UK in 1979.
The prestigious event is open to talented young professionals aged up to 28 from any background working in the hospitality sector. It aims to recognise the next generation of culinary and service stars and elevate the hospitality profession, encouraging young professionals to view it as a rewarding and noble career path.
The one-day Thailand Finals include three individual categories — Young Chef, Young Waiter and Young Mixologist — each featuring four finalists ready to showcase their exceptional skills and creativity.
Following in Asia’s success at the Monaco World Finals 2023 which saw Team Singapore sweep the top spot in all categories, 12 young hopefuls aim to represent Thailand in this year’s World Finals, competing against teams from 10 other countries for a share of the grand cash prize of US$15,000 (501,000 baht). The competition is scheduled to run from Nov 22-24 in Singapore.
The judging panel features renowned culinary and hospitality experts who will bring their unique expertise and insights to the competition.
They include chef Pam (Pichaya Soontornyanakij), acclaimed as Asia’s Best Female Chef 2024; chef Ian Kittichai, the first Thai national to hold an executive chef position at a 5-star hotel; chef Sylvain Royer, who oversees multiple acclaimed restaurants across Asia and Australia; and Kunanun Lertpisitkul, who is revolutionising the Bangkok culinary scene.
Sitting in the panel to pick the best young waiter and mixologist are Choti Leenutaphong, co-founder and managing partner of Foodie Collection; Shane Giles, who has over 30 years of experience in Asia’s F&B industry; Giovanni Pitton, who has led his establishments to Michelin-starred success and international acclaim; and Matteo Cadeddu, a key member of Opium Bar.
For more information, visit youngchefyoungwaiter.com/thailand.