(Singapore 30 November 2023) The winners of the World Young Chef Young Waiter and World Young Mixologist 2023 finals is Team Singapore - Ian Tan from Bottega di Carna, Belle Torres from Restaurant Zen and Zana Mohlmann from Manhattan Bar. The winners of the competition were announced at the Salle Empire of Hotel de Paris in Monaco, during a special awards dinner on November 24, 2023. Each of the three winners received a share of the $15,000 grand prize.
“This experience gave me the platform to be able to put Southeast Asian cuisine on the map, Ian Tan said. "Not only did it get me to the world stage, but I also won it. I’d like to share with the rest of the world, that no matter where you come from, all of the food you love, be it from the street or at home all have a place in this world. I’d like to encourage everyone to be proud of their ethnicity, their culture, their food and most importantly their friends and family, may all ALWAYS dine with an open heart and an empty stomach.”
From left to right: Ian Tan from Bottega di Carna, Belle Torres from Restaurant Zen and Zana Mohlmann from Manhattan Bar
Belle Torres from Restaurant Zen Singapore said: “The WorldYCYW finals 2023 didn’t come easy for me before flying to Monaco. My visa got rejected on the first try and the second try. It was a nerve-racking waiting game, and I was losing hope to represent Singapore in the World Finals. Few days before flying to Monaco, the consulate contacted me about my visa, and it was finally approved. I still feel ecstatic whenever I look back on what happened. It was such an honour and humbling opportunity to bring back the trophy home as World YCYW Champion Waiter 2023, I hope we can inspire more young people to ignite their passion for hospitality. “GO BIG or GO HOME!”
“WYM gave me new friends around the world and in Singapore!" revealed Zana Mohlmann from Manhattan Singapore. "This competition is going to be one of the best platforms for young professionals to expand their careers globally.”
The world champions were chosen from nine chefs, nine waiters and four mixologists from England, Wales, Singapore, Ireland, the Cayman Islands, Hong Kong, Monaco, USA and Scotland. Finalists were judged by a panel of esteemed culinary experts, food critics, and industry leaders. Among the esteemed chef judges were Adam Handling, Mario Perera, Michael Kwan, Emanuele Del Signore, Paul Walsh, and Adam Thomason. The waiter judges included Simon King, Andy Downton, George Heresy, and Daniele Giovinazzo. Meanwhile, the mixologist judges were Anna Sebastian, Yann Bouvignies, Paul Robinson, and Jerome Schrotz.
In second and third place were Team USA and Team England & Team Wales respectively.
Throughout the competition, chefs faced three challenging tasks. The first task required them to craft a Tarte Tatin and custard dish. The second task involved creating a three-course menu and preparing six plates for judges and VIP lunch guests. Waiters navigated five tasks, including section set-up, interviews and scenarios, wine pairing, a quiz, and a champagne pour. Mixologists, on the other hand, undertook three tasks: creating a cocktail from ingredients sourced from Monaco's local market, presenting their signature serve infused with NEFT Vodka, and crafting a classic cocktail.
One of the highlights of the World Finals was the Educational Day, which was designed to enrich the knowledge and skills of young talents. This day included an exclusive tour of some of Monaco's iconic locations, including a tour of SBM properties and a visit to the L’Organgerie Distillery.
Robert Walton MBE, Chairman of WorldYYY said: “I am so proud to crown the World Champion Chef, Waiter, and Mixologists from Singapore. I am so proud of how the competition continues to highlight the young, up-and-coming talent in our exciting industry. The aim of World YCYW is simple: to uncover the very best young talent in our industry. Our 2023 entrants have had the opportunity to meet high profile industry professionals, learn new skills and make new friends. Thank you to everyone who was involved and who has supported this competition. Thank you, Monaco, for being such a great host.”
Team Singapore appreciates the generous support of their sponsors and partners, including Twiga Group, NEFT Vodka, Lycée Rainer ll, Great Campaign, Crazy Pizza, Champagne PIAFF, Culinary Institute of America, Pure Iconic Water, Monte Carlo Societe Ses Bains de Mer and Hotel de Paris Monte Carlo.