Hozpitality Group Held Its Exclusive Awards for Chefs in 2024 in Dubai
After 19 consecutive and successful Middle East and Africa award ceremonies, Hozpitality Group hosted the 7th "Middle East Chef Excellence Awards" on June 7, 2024, at the JW Marriott Dubai Marina. This prestigious event, held in partnership with the Emirates Culinary Guild, celebrated the achievements of young chefs.
Chefs in the hospitality industry play a crucial role in shaping culinary experiences and setting dining standards. Their creativity, skill, and dedication transform simple ingredients into extraordinary dishes that delight guests and elevate the reputation of their establishments. These culinary professionals are not only masters of their craft but also innovators who continuously push the boundaries of flavour and presentation. Whether working in hotels, resorts, airlines, restaurants, or facilities management, chefs contribute significantly to the hospitality industry's success, making memorable dining experiences a cornerstone of excellent service.
Raj Bhatt, CEO and Director - Hozpitality Group
The Popular Choice Awards were determined solely by popular vote and announced during the ceremony. Additionally, the Judges Choice Awards were presented alongside the Popular Choice Awards, and the evening featured a cook-off among young chefs, culminating in the presentation of the Young Chef of the Year trophy. Hozpitality Group's Middle East Chef Excellence Awards (MEA) recognize talented chefs across various categories and departments within the industry.
For the Young Chef Cook-Off Awards, the competition began with the first round in February, where all chefs were invited to submit one recipe and pictures via email. Sixteen shortlisted chefs showcased their culinary talents and creativity in a semi-final cook-off at ICCA in the second round. The final round occurred on the Awards Night, where the top five young chefs faced an ultimate cook-off to determine the winner.
Chefs from the Emirates Culinary Guild judging the live cook-off and determines the Young Chef of the Year
The Hozpitality Excellence Awards honour chefs working in various hospitality industry sectors, including those in hotels, resorts, and apartments, showcasing their culinary expertise and dedication. The awards also recognize chefs from domestic and international airlines, celebrating their ability to deliver exceptional in-flight dining experiences.
This prestigious recognition includes freestanding restaurants and those located within hotels, highlighting chefs who elevate dining standards and culinary creativity. Furthermore, chefs in facilities management companies are acknowledged for contributing to catering and food service management, ensuring high-quality culinary offerings in diverse settings.
As official entrants, after the enrolment deadline, companies receive a unique voting website link to distribute to their selected end-users, colleagues, and trade professionals for voting. The final results were determined by combining the online votes, ensuring a thorough evaluation of each participant.
The judging process involved a combination of votes from end-users, trade professionals, our network members, and the Judging Panel, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of each participant.
Hozpitality Group would like to acknowledge our industry partners, with whom this event was possible. We extend our heartfelt thanks to JW Marriott Dubai Marina, Emirates Culinary Guild, ICCA, Restofair RAK, Rak Porcelain, US Beef, Taaza, MasterBaker, Absolute Frame, Fushia Events, African & Eastern, Watermelon, Convotherm and Welbilt. Your support and collaboration have been invaluable in making this event a success.
We would also like to congratulate all the winners and participants in the Chef Awards in 2024. Your talent and dedication have truly made this event memorable and inspiring.
The full list of winners can be seen at https://www.hozpitality.com/awards
Meela Seenarain
Dubai, United Arab Emirates UAE