On January 26, 2024, Elle & Vire’s Professionnel Cream Cheese Competition final in the GCC took place in partnership with the award-winning ICCA, Dubai. Renowned Ambassadors, chefs Karim Bourgi, Francois Daubinet and Sergio Freitas of ICCA judged the finalists in the competition.
In the first challenge, finalists crafted a signature cheesecake, utilizing Elle & Vire Professionnel American Cream Cheese for a distinctive touch. In the second challenge, finalists crafted a plated cheesecake using specific ingredients set by Chef Francois Daubinet, incorporating Elle & Vire Professionnel Soft Style Cream Cheese.
Moreover, a total of six winners from KSA, Kuwait and the UAE went head-to-head for the grand prize and the title of best chef. Kimberly Valeroso from Lafayette Gourmet won the first prize of USD 5,000. Artur Sviatnenko won the second prize of USD 3,500 from Zo Bakery. Finally, Norman Mawili from LPM Riyadh won the third prize of USD 1,500. A cocktail party at the Bastion Restaurant Jumeirah Beach Hotel followed the prize-giving ceremony.
Elle & Vire Professionnel Cream Cheese Competition initiative
Elle & Vire Professionnel promoted its professional cream cheese in the GCC through the 2023 Elle & Vire Professionnel Cream Cheese Competition, which spanned the UAE, Kuwait and KSA. Notably, top chefs from five-star hotels, restaurant chains and bakeries took part in the competition.
The first round took place at the Salon du Chocolat in Dubai, UAE, and was judged by Elle & Vire Professionnel brand ambassador chef Karim Bourgi, in addition to chef Bernard Charles and chef Paul Hayward. The second round was held in in Kuwait, with Elle & Vire Professionnel Ambassador chef Ali Dashti, chef Ziad Hilal and chef Benjamin de Closets as judges. Finally, the third round took place at Salon du Chocolat in Riyadh. There the judges comprised Elle & Vire Professionnel Ambassador chef Farah Hamdane, in addition to chef Charles Azar and chef Bernard Charles.
The initiative aimed to actively involve chefs, communicate the diverse usages of the brand’s products and promote talented young chefs using Elle & Vire Professionnel cream cheese range.
Elle & Vire Professionnel has been active in the Middle East for many years. Moreover, it is a major brand that offers such a wide range of cream cheese products for professionals.
For more information visit www.elle-et-vire.com/pro/en