Alshaya’s top chefs go head-to-head in the Annual Alshaya Culinary competition

20 Oct 2022

Chefs across Alshaya food brands in MENA competed in the second Alshaya Culinary competition, where they were invited to submit their application and create a signature dish using spring chicken as the main ingredient.  An astonishing 90 entries were received and were shortlisted by a panel of judges comprising of culinary experts. Six finalists went head-to-head and showcased their skills during the final cook-off where Chef Shaikh Mujauddin- Chef de Partie at Asha’s, Kuwait was crowned the culinary champion.

Alshaya Group Chairman, Mohammed Alshaya and CEO John Hadden both attended the competition to recognize and award winners with certificates and prizes. They thanked the chefs for their participation in the company's success, saying "Our restaurants are an important and strategic part of the company's success, and we always strive to develop and expand it with your help and high passion." 

Held at the Alshaya Culinary Centre of Excellence (ACCE) in The Avenues - Kuwait, the six finalists had to create their signature dish using various ingredients and techniques. After two hours, the judges received the final dishes to evaluate based on different criteria such as the innovation, techniques and methods used, complexity of the dish, and final presentation.  

Hatice Harmankaya, Head of Marketing in the Hospitality Division, shared her experience as a member of the jury " I’m very honoured to be part of the judging panel. This competition is an excellent opportunity to appreciate our chefs who have always impressed our customers behind the kitchen with their skills and abilities - a task that is not easy at all." 

"This competition is an important event for my future career; I enjoyed it very much. It was not easy to compete with the other five participants; they all have amazing skills and worked very hard to be here today. I wish them all the best,” shared winner Chef Shaikh Mujauddin.