HBI Staff | Hyderabad 
Business France India, the French Trade and Investment Commission, Le Cordon Bleu at GD Goenka University, one of the premier hospitality education institutions in the world, in association with the Indo-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry, are delighted to announce the successful conclusion of the French Patisserie Competition, celebrating the finest French pastry talent across India.
The competition concluded with a grand award ceremony at the Embassy of France in New Delhi. The remarkable competition showcased the outstanding skills and creativity of pastry chefs from five major cities: Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Puducherry, and Bengaluru. The regional finals were held within the Embassy of France as well as the four General Consulates of France in India. The four General Consuls of France took part in the Competition as Jury Members.
The competition journey commenced with 40 talented contestants competing for a coveted spot in the Finale. After a series of rigorous and inspiring rounds, 13 exceptional finalists emerged, representing their cities with pride and passion. The grand finale featured an impressive display of culinary artistry, culminating in the announcement of the winners.
The winners of the French Patisserie Competition included:
- Prerna Kothari, Senior Learning Facilitator at Le Cordon Bleu School of Hospitality & Tourism, GD Goenka University, Gurugram
- Akash Khandelwal, Senior Sous Chef at Sheraton Hotel, New Delhi
- Sayali S. Avhad, Entrepreneur and Owner of Chef Lee Bakes and Assistant Professor at Lexicon Institute of Hotel Management, Pune
The winner of the event, Chef Prerna Kothari, was awarded a trip to Paris, in the form of flight tickets and a stay at Le Mathurin Paris Hôtel & Spa.
The event was graced by esteemed guests, including the Ambassador of France to India, H.E Mr. Thierry Mathou, representatives from all corners of the F&B industry, Business France, Le Cordon Bleu and the Indo-French Chamber of Commerce. The judges, recognised for their expertise in the culinary arts, lauded the contestants for their dedication, innovation, and exceptional craftsmanship.
“We are thrilled to witness the amazing talent and creativity displayed by all the participants. This competition not only celebrates the art of French patisserie but also strengthens the culinary ties between India and France. Le Cordon Bleu at GD Goenka University is proud to be a part of this platform where culinary enthusiasts and experts from across the world come together to promote a tradition of excellence,” said H.E Mr. Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India.
The award ceremony was a vibrant celebration, incorporating numerous activities and highlights. The guests had the chance to enjoy catering provided by the Lalit, Hospitality Partner of the event.
In addition to the awards, the event also served as a venue for networking and collaboration among culinary professionals, fostering a sense of community and shared passion for the art of patisserie.
