Culinary Olympiad 2026 — International Culinary Olympiad for Secondary School Students
15–17 yrs · free · 21 October 2026 — 11 November 2026 · onlineInternational Culinary Olympiad 2026 for students in grades 9–11. Participants develop a recipe and prepare their favourite dish with modern plating, create a video of the process, and receive feedback from professionals. The winner gets a week of study at Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland (tuition, accommodation, meals, and insurance included). Participation is online in English (minimum B1 level). Free registration.
- Age
- 15–17 yrs
- Cost
- Free
- Applications
- Applications closed
- Format
- Online
- Where
- Online, Switzerland
- From Ukraine?
- Not stated whether children from Ukraine can apply — check with the organiser
Format
- Online via Zoom, in English
- Requirement: English proficiency B1 or higher
Olympiad Timeline
- October 1 — Olympiad announcement and introductory webinar (18:00)
- October 21 – November 2 — Work on your culinary project
- November 3–10 — Review of participants' work
- November 11 — Finals and announcement of winners
Task
Participants select a local main ingredient from their region and create their favourite dish with modern plating. In the video, briefly introduce yourself, tell the story and origin of your dish, and explain your choice.
What to Expect
- A real culinary challenge: creating your own dish from concept and recipe to modern plating and presentation
- Workshop with a chef (60 minutes) led by David Alvarez, Senior Chef Instructor at Culinary Arts Academy
- Meetings with leaders in the culinary industry
Outcomes
- Certificate of participation from Culinary Arts Academy and DEC Education
- 2 exclusive lectures from the chef
- Personal experience: your own dish from concept to plating
- Networking with participants and professionals
Awards for 5 Finalists
- Personal feedback on your project on LinkedIn from the professor
- Gifts from Culinary Arts Academy
- Opportunity for internship and practical experience with leading culinary professionals in Ukraine
Grand Prize
One week at Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland summer culinary school
Includes: educational programme, accommodation, meals, and insurance. Professional culinary education in English from chefs; master classes, work in a professional kitchen, and a team culinary project; international environment with participants from around the world. Accommodation in a secure residence, three meals a day, and 24/7 coordinator support. Upon completion — a certificate from Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland and the opportunity to apply for a scholarship for further study.
Organisers
DEC Education and Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland