The 16th edition of the Hotel Asia Exhibition and the International Culinary Challenge concluded on Wednesday (12 October). The exhibition returned for its 16th edition after a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Dubbed “South Asia’s largest hospitality trade show,” the three-day fair at the Dharubaaruge convention centre in Malé featured 175 booths and stalls with domestic and foreign exhibitors showcasing their products and services. The International Culinary Challenge with hundreds of chefs from resorts and restaurants across the country was held concurrently with support from the Chefs Guild of Maldives.
With “top brands and suppliers who have excelled in the hospitality industry” in attendance, the exhibition served as an “arena for buyers to explore and source from recognised brands, network directly with international manufacturers whilst discovering the latest developments and trends in the market,” according to the event organisers.
The awards ceremony for the International Culinary Challenge was held at Kurumba Maldives on Thursday with Vice President Faisal Naseem as chief guest.
The ‘Best Artist’ award went to Indika Priyankara from Bandos Maldives, while Manju Manaram from Dhigali Maldives was named ‘Most Outstanding Pastry Chef’. The ‘Most Promising Young Maldivian Chef’ was Ismail Thahseen from Huvafenfushi. The coveted ‘Top Maldivian Chef’ and ‘Most Outstanding Chef’ titles were both awarded to Ahmed Mazhim from Four Seasons Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru.
The title of ‘Best Culinary Establishment’ – ‘Alan Palmer Challenge Trophy’ was awarded to Baros Maldives for the third time. The resort also took the top spot in 5 categories.
