Croatian chefs win big in Belgrade and secure ticket to Shanghai world finals

Croatian chefs have secured a historic achievement at an international culinary competition in Belgrade, winning two gold medals and one silver to qualify for the world finals in two categories for the first time.

The Croatian team finished first overall at the Global Chefs Challenge semi-finals for the southern European region, held from 10 to 12 October in Belgrade, Serbia.

The results secured Croatia two places at the world finals, which will take place in Shanghai, China, in late March 2027.

Amos Novak and his assistant Mladen Zorec, from Restaurant Terbotz in Međimurje, won gold in the senior category, finishing first overall in the regional competition and earning direct qualification for the world finals.

Croatia also claimed gold in the Global Vegan Chefs Challenge through Patrik Prnjak and Eldin Tubić, representing Restaurant Monsapori at Hotel Monumenti in Pula.

Their victory secured Croatia a second place at the world finals, highlighting the country’s growing expertise in plant-based cuisine, which continues to gain prominence internationally.

The Croatian team’s success was rounded off by Marko Hudin and Claudio Mastrovincenzo, who won silver and finished third overall in the Global Young Chefs Challenge, a category for chefs aged up to 25.

Their result underlined the strength of Croatia’s emerging culinary talent and the next generation of professionals competing at international level.

Erich Glavica, president of the Croatian Chefs Association, described the results as a historic achievement for the country’s culinary profession and an opportunity to strengthen Croatia’s international reputation.

He said high-quality gastronomy had become an important motivation for visitors, particularly those seeking premium travel experiences.

Glavica added that international competition results could also help promote ingredients from local producers, encourage young people to pursue careers in cooking and raise professional standards in restaurants and hotels.

The Croatian team will now prepare for the finals in Shanghai, where its representatives will compete against leading chefs from around the world.

The Global Chefs Challenge is an international competition organised under the World Association of Chefs’ Societies, widely known as Worldchefs. It brings together professional chefs to demonstrate their technical skills, creativity and culinary expertise.

The Croatian Chefs Association is a non-profit organisation focused on professional development, knowledge exchange and supporting emerging culinary talent.

With support from the Croatian National Tourist Board, the association uses international competitions to showcase Croatian chefs and promote the country’s gastronomy abroad.

Croatia’s two gold medals and a silver in Belgrade have secured a place for its chefs on the world stage, with the team now turning its attention to Shanghai in March 2027.