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18th February 2025

International Salon Culinaire celebrates more than 1,000 entries

Written by: Edward Waddell
International Salon Culinaire 2025, part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week, is set to be one of the most hotly contested editions of the chef competition yet, with a record-breaking 1,000 entries to take part in this year’s event.

Taking place on 17-19th March at Excel London Salon Culinaire will feature over 100 live and static competitions offering chefs a unique platform to showcase their skills, creativity and culinary innovation.

International Salon Culinaire has been a cornerstone of the UK hospitality industry, bringing together chefs of all levels to compete in front of judges.

The competition is once again supported by Compass Group UK & Ireland as headline partner, reinforcing the company’s commitment to supporting chefs and driving innovation in the sector. 

Andrew Pantelli, project director for Salon Culinaire, commented: “To see more than a thousand entries to this year’s competition is a testament to the passion and dedication that drives our industry. The competition continues to grow, and it’s inspiring to witness chefs pushing their boundaries, testing their skills and gaining invaluable experience on this platform. 

“The support we receive from across the industry is instrumental in making Salon Culinaire the success it is today. We can’t wait to see the incredible talent that this year’s competitors will bring to the table.” 

Among the categories for 2025 is the return of the Association of Pastry Chefs’ Dessert of the Year competition, as well as the Oatly Plant-Based Culinary Challenge and the Tilda Chef Team of the Year.

Salon director Steve Munkley said: "I feel heart-warmed by the entry levels to Salon Culinaire 2025, we have had over a thousand entries registered and had to close many of the live competitions early.

“It is a great sign that the industry is back and chefs throughout the sectors are entering the largest cookery competition in the country. Every feature is oversubscribed but I must call out the Skills Theatre where we will be showcasing the talent of over 400 students during the three days. The future of our industry is bright." 

To register for your complimentary trade ticket to this year’s event, visit: fooddrinkandhospitalityweek.co.uk