Oodles of chocolate, creative ideas, innovative designs made of chocolate and a bunch of talented chefs who make it all happen—World Chocolate Masters is all things chocolates.

The global event sees talented chefs compete for the world’s chocolate master. As the final event is due to take place next year, Middle East’s most influential pastry chefs competed for the regional heat of the World Chocolate Masters, presented by French gourmet chocolate brand Cacao Barry, part of the Barry Callebaut Group.

The event that took place on Wednesday, saw seven Chefs from different parts of the Middle East prep for this edition’s National Chocolate Master and confirm their spot in the final competition along with 20 other finalists.

The theme for this year’s competition was ‘#TMRW_TASTES_LOOKS_FEELS_LIKE,’ which was based on the impact of COVID-19 on the industry and how it has driven artisans and chefs to refuel, rethink and restart. The chef at the contest explored the new expressions of chocolate through their works. The chefs were judged based on five assignments —#YOU, #DESIGN, #TASTE, #SNACK, and #BONBON.

As the contestants were put through these various levels of challenges, the first award was bagged by chef Dilip Kumara who is a Sous Chef at Five Hotel and resorts. The second position was bagged by chef Aravinda Leelarathna and third place was won by Vivian Creado.

The National Chocolate Master Dilip Kumara will now represent the Middle East at the World Final, which is set to take place in October 2022.

The contest which began in 2005, is the only competition in the world dedicated to the creative talent of professionals in gastronomy, patisserie, or chocolaterie. Going in its eighth edition, the contest uncovers talents from different regions and putting them on a world stage.