CULINARY EXCELLENCE IN PARMA:
ChITE SUTE Students at the Cooking Quiz 2026 European Final
On May 6–7, 2026, the historic Italian city of Parma became the vibrant heart of European hospitality and culinary education as it hosted the highly anticipated Cooking Quiz 2026 European Final. This prestigious continental competition brought together the brightest young culinary minds, showcasing the future leaders of the global food and restaurant industry.
The journey to the finals was intensely competitive. Over 36,000 students from 122 educational institutions across Europe participated in the grueling qualifying rounds. Ultimately, only the most talented teams earned their spot in the grand finale, representing nations celebrated for their rich gastronomic heritage: Italy, Spain, Croatia, France, Belgium, Greece, Lithuania, Romania, Portugal, Germany, and Ukraine.
Ukraine was proudly represented on this international stage by an elite team of students from the Chernivtsi Institute of Trade and Economics of SUTE (ChITE SUTE): Kateryna Vasiliu, Danylo Vdovichen, Vitalina Capra, Daria Reznikova, and Ivanna Shchur. The team’s impressive performance was the result of rigorous preparation and mentorship by a dedicated faculty coaching panel, including Iryna Losheniuk, Olha Vdovichena, Karina Palamarek, Valeria Peniuk, and Veronika Martyniuk.
This year, the international final placed a sharp focus on the bedrock of modern gastronomy: authentic Italian culinary traditions, Protected Designation of Origin (DOP) products, and the principles of sustainable development. Finalists were tested on their mastery of Italian local ingredients, recipe adaptation, strict food safety protocols, and deep professional knowledge of the food industry. A significant portion of the practical challenges centered on the specific techniques and culinary heritage of the Emilia-Romagna region—the gastronomic cradle of Italy. Given this regional focus, the host nation’s teams swept the top prizes across the highly contested categories of Enogastronomia (Wine and Food), Pasticceria (Pastry), and Sala-Vendita (Restaurant Service).
The Cooking Quiz 2026 European Final proved to be a magnificent celebration of talent, professionalism, and culinary passion. Events of this caliber are vital in fostering international cooperation, driving classroom innovation, and nurturing the next generation of industry professionals. For the talented students of ChITE SUTE, this international milestone marks just the beginning of a long and successful journey toward global professional achievements.