Food Vision: A Confluence of Tastes & Talent
From the very beginning of Wine Vision, there is a special segment of the fair which both, completes and enriches the entire experience of everyone who stepped foot in this fair, and that is Food Vision. Held as part of the Wine Vision by Open Balkan fair from November 22-24 at the Belgrade Fair, brought the region’s culinary artistry and future gastronomic stars into the spotlight. Under the inspiring slogan, “Confluence of Tastes,” the event celebrated emerging talent, innovative culinary traditions, and international excellence in the food and hospitality industry.
A Grand Opening with Notable Figures
The event commenced with speeches from Danijel Nikolić, Assistant Secretary General of the Government of Serbia, Fabricio Andreuci, Deputy Permanent Representative of UNDP Serbia, and Nikola Biševac, President of the Junior Chefs Club. The competitive and educational program was inaugurated by celebrated chef and creative director Tomaž Kavčić, underscoring the festival’s commitment to culinary excellence.
Spotlight on Young Talent: Junior Chef Competition
A highlight of the event was the Junior Chef Competition, which showcased the skills of chefs and culinary teams under 25 years old. Judged by an international panel of experts, including Alan Coxon (UK), Gianluca Tomasi (Italy), and Daniel Schade (Germany), competitors were tasked with preparing a modern take on traditional dishes.
And here are the winners of this year’s competition in all categories:
Best Young Chef 2024: Milana Čugalj
Runners-Up: Andrej Hrenek (2nd) and Sara Drobnjak (3rd)
Top Culinary Team: Team “Sharp,” followed by “Oui Chef” and the University of Hospitality School from Belgrade.
Awards were presented by notable officials, including Husein Memić, Minister of Tourism and Youth, and Jelena Begović, Minister of Science and Innovation.
Masterclasses and International Expertise
The event featured a series of engaging masterclasses and workshops. Alessandro Negrini, Michelin-starred chef, dazzled audiences with his culinary expertise, while Cesare Battisti and Gabriele Zanata shared secrets of Italian cuisine. Special star-guest was also Enrico Derflinger, who enchanted audience with his signature risotto dish that he made for the late Queen Elizabeth. Other notable mentions include Ivan Pažanin, and Filip Ćirić, each contributing unique insights to the culinary arts.
Special presentations, such as “The Game of Herons in Serbia” by Chinese chefs Zhiling Chen and Xianying Wu, added a global perspective. Meanwhile, Andrea Biadjini, a partner of the Michelin Guide, highlighted the synergy between food, wine, and tourism.
A Showcase of Excellence
The Gastro Theater offered visitors the chance to savor three-course menus from top restaurants across Serbia, Albania, and North Macedonia. Proceeds from the program were dedicated to humanitarian causes. Additionally, an exhibition of HORECA industry innovations attracted hospitality professionals, emphasizing the fair’s role as a hub for industry growth.
Diplomatic and Regional Support
The event welcomed key political figures, including Serbian Prime Minister Miloš Vučević and North Macedonian Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski, who greeted exhibitors and underscored the importance of culinary diplomacy in fostering regional unity.
Impact and Legacy
Food Vision by Open Balkan not only celebrated the richness of the region’s culinary heritage but also spotlighted the next generation of chefs poised to define its future. The event solidified its reputation as a vital platform for industry innovation and collaboration.
