Nadi, Fiji – May 24, 2024 – The Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort’s culinary team secured a silver medal at the Australian Culinary Federation’s prestigious Restaurant Challenge 2024. The competition, held from May 19th to 21st at the International Convention Centre Sydney, featured top culinary teams from nine countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and Chile.
Led by Executive Sous Chef Rakesh Kumar, the team showcased Fiji’s culinary excellence with an exceptional two-course menu for fifty guests, judged by four internationally accredited judges. The menu highlighted indigenous flavors and locally sourced ingredients such as cassava, duruka (wild asparagus), fragrant lemongrass, handcrafted Momi Bay salt, zesty bush lemon, and cage-free eggs.
Chef Rakesh Kumar, also the President of the Fiji Chefs Association, was joined by Assistant Pastry Chef Muni Vikash Chetty, Junior Sous Chef Ifraz Hussein from Island 619 restaurant, and Junior Sous Chef Nemia Waqanivavalagi from Tatavu Grill & Bar. Their collective effort exemplified the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Fiji.
Neeraj Chadha, Multi-Property Vice President Pacific Islands, Marriott International, and General Manager of Sheraton & Westin Resorts – Fiji Complex, commended the team, stating, “Congratulations to Chef Rakesh and the team for their incredible efforts and demonstration of exceptional culinary showmanship to be in the top three in a very competitive field. The development and exposure of local talent at such events are crucial for our associates’ growth and the quality of culinary experiences we offer our guests.”
The team’s participation was supported by local partners, including major sponsor Flour Mills of Fiji, as well as Smart Chef Fiji, Star Hospitality, and SS Builders.
For more information on Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort’s special events and culinary experiences, visit the Resorts’ events calendar.
