World Gourmet Summit gathers record number of nominated gourmands
SINGAPORE — Some of the world's best chefs, culinary students and gourmands recently gathered to network and to check out the latest food industry trends at the recently concluded 21st World Gourmet Summit (WGS) in Singapore.
First launched in 1997, WGS is an annual Epicurean festival that showcases the intricate craftsmanship of prestigious chefs all over the globe. It encompasses a series of events such as themed dinners and social service programs.
In celebration of its 21st year this 2017, WGS is working with the National Kidney Foundation (NKF), a charity that provides care and support for people with kidney-related diseases. During the gala dinner, an auction took place with all funds donated to NKF to provide dialysis for patients and prevention efforts against kidney diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.
Given to outstanding professionals and establishments from the food, beverage and hospitality industries, the World Gourmet Summit Awards of Excellence (AOE) is regarded as one of the most respected awards in the culinary world wherein chefs and other practitioners are nominated and voted by their peers. This year, WGS AOE registered a record number of 39 honored culinary professionals.
“This year’s record number of public nominations is a clear indication of the appreciation and acknowledgment of the pivotal role that the industry professionals play in the evolution of the F&B and hospitality scene in Asia,” AOE explains in a statement.
AEO 2017 were presented under five main voting categories: Chef Awards, Establishment and Hospitality Awards, Wine Awards, Industry Awards, Chef’s Choice Awards and Recognition Awards. New awards include Baker of the Year, Restaurant of the Year (Regional) and Restaurateur of the Year.
“This year’s AOE recipients are the best of the best and they are truly the outstanding professionals that not only set but raise the industry bar,” said Peter Knipp, Chief Executive Officer of PKH Pte Ltd, which manages and curates AEO and the WGS.
Started in 2001, AEO aims to motivate talents in the industry to excel in the culinary profession and to promote wine and dine appreciation.
Celebrity Chef Gene Gonzalez of Café Ysabel in Manila and Chef Antonio “Tony Boy” Escalante of Antonio’s in Tagaytay were both nominated as finalists for the award Asian Cuisine Chef of the Year (Regional).
READ: Filipino chefs make it to finals global gourmet awards
Here are some highlights of WGS 2017
WGS 2017 gathered chefs and culinary movers and shakers from all over the world. Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo
The world's chefs presented traditional dishes, as well as exotic ones like pigeon paella, roasted quail, duck canepes, bone marrow burgers, and anchovy marmalades, among others. Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo
A truffle dish served in a cone. Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo
The chefs battled it out not only in taste but also presentation. Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo
The chefs battled it out not only in taste but also presentation. Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo
WGS also advocates for sustainably sourced ingredients and fair trade. Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo
Fashion drinks: San Pellegrino sparkling water co-designed by Italian Vogue and Bottega wines. Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo
Rye gin garnished with cranberries. Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo
Time for dessert! Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo
Some of the world's greatest chefs and culinary practitioners gathered at the WGS 2017 in Singapore to network and exchange ideas. Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo
