Young Chef Olympiad (YCO) conceived in 2015 by the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) in partnership with the International Hospitality Council (IHC), London, has grown into the world’s largest culinary competition for student chefs. Every year, more than 70 countries participate, making it not just a contest of skill but a celebration of global gastronomy and cultural exchange.
Now, as the culinary world looks towards the 12th edition of YCO in February 2026, India has set the stage for its national selections through the eagerly awaited Young Chef India 2025 competition. For thousands of final-year hospitality students across the country, this is more than just another contest – it is a chance to represent India on the world’s biggest culinary stage.
How the Competition Unfolds
The Young Chef India 2025 competition is structured in three rigorous rounds:
- Preliminary Round: Hospitality institutions and universities across India are invited to nominate their brightest final-year student chefs.
- Qualifier Round: Shortlisted candidates will compete at one of IIHM’s campuses in Kolkata, Delhi, Bangalore, and Pune.
- National Final: The top eight chefs from the qualifiers (two from each city) will battle it out in Kolkata, with one winner earning the honour of representing India at YCO 2026.
The global Olympiad itself, scheduled from 1st to 6th February 2026, will unfold across six Indian cities before culminating in a spectacular grand finale in Kolkata.
No Barriers, Only Opportunities
In keeping with IIHM’s vision of accessibility and inclusivity, there is no participation fee for Young Chef India 2025. Registrations are now open until 26th September 2025 via www.youngchefindia.com/register-now. The selection process will take place between end-September and mid-November 2025, giving participants a clear pathway towards the global competition.
A Call to the Industry
IIHM invites hospitality and culinary institutions across the country to nominate their most promising final-year chefs. By participating, institutions not only showcase their talent at a national level but also contribute to strengthening India’s culinary reputation globally.
