• The Young Chefs competition returns in 2026 with a new challenge dedicated to young talents in Romanian confectionery.
Organized by Elle & Vire Professionnel and Valrhona, this year's edition invites qualified confectioners up to the age of 35 to reinterpret one of the most emblematic traditional desserts – the Diplomat cake – while preserving its essence and identity.
Participation is carried out in teams consisting of two members: a chef and a helper. Registrations are open until August 15 2026, and the national final will take place on September 19, in Bucharest. For the pre-selection stage, candidates must submit sketches of the two proposed desserts, along with a clear description of the creative concept. The finalists will be announced on August 31.
The central challenge is to create a reinterpreted classic cake, including three mandatory textures, alongside a deconstructed version of the same dessert. In both preparations, the competitors must preserve the flavors and ingredients specific to the Diplomat cake, but present them in a contemporary, original and refined form.
This year's jury brings together leading figures in Romanian confectionery: Ioana Romanescu, Peter Schuller, Robert Eisler and Andreea Moldovan. They will evaluate both creativity and respect for the identity of the traditional dessert, the techniques applied and the quality of execution.
The winners will benefit from valuable professional development opportunities. The grand prize consists of a three-day intensive practical training at La Maison de L'Excellence Savencia in Paris. The second place team will receive a course at the Valrhona School of Paris, and the third place team will participate in a masterclass organized by ICEP Horeca School in Bucharest. All prizes include training internships in Romania and France.
The inaugural edition of the competition, held last year on the theme of cheesecake, attracted 40 competitors from all over the country. Eight teams reached the final, and the trophy was awarded to Andrei Gheorghiță Antonio and Dumitru Eugen Mihai, confectioners of the La Mița Biciclista confectionery.
Young Chefs is an important platform for the new generations of Romanian confectioners, encouraging them to combine tradition with innovation, using top ingredients and modern techniques. Those interested can register online through the organizers' official channels.
Article source: Press Release
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