2 April 2025
NMTAFE Commercial Cookery graduate students showcased their exceptional talents on the global stage at the Hanoi Salon Culinaire in Vietnam, held from 18-20 March. Representing the College, these graduates – all former Apprentice of the Year Winners – demonstrated their culinary artistry across a variety of challenging categories, including Vietnamese cuisine, pasta and seafood dishes, cake decorating, and mini dessert tarts.
Alumni Mei Chieng (now at Crown Perth), Kristina Bharathy (now at FMG), and Alexis Mifsud from Standard Gauge, accompanied by our very own lecturers Tam Nguyen and Peter Tischhauser, returned home with an impressive haul of awards, including two Gold, three Silver, and two Bronze medals, along with special awards to Mei Chieng and Alexis Mifsud for Best Overall Food Safety Hygiene, and Mei Chieng for Best Tartlet.
Team Manager Tam Nguyen expressed pride in the team’s accomplishments, describing the experience as a resounding success. “We had an amazing time working alongside Vietnamese competitors, making new friends, and learning from international judges,” Tam said.
Since its inception in 2023, the Hanoi Salon Culinaire has served as a vibrant platform for celebrating culinary excellence and fostering global connections. The competition brings together chefs from around the world to showcase the artistry, innovation, and diversity of their cuisines.