IIHM to Host 12th International Young Chef Olympiad in 2026
The International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) will host the 12th edition of the International Young Chef Olympiad (YCO 2026), featuring student chefs from 50 countries.
The International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) is set to host the 12th edition of the International Young Chef Olympiad (YCO 2026), bringing together student chefs from 50 countries. The event will commence with an opening ceremony in Bengaluru on February 1, 2026, and will culminate in a grand finale in Kolkata on February 6, 2026.
Hyderabad will play a significant role by hosting two major events. On February 2, 2026, the city will host the United World of Young Chefs (UWYC) International Food Festival at The Glass Onion, Gachibowli. This non-competitive event will feature student chefs and mentors from 10 countries, including France, Scotland, Belarus, Greece, Namibia, South Africa, Botswana, Nigeria, Ireland, and Switzerland, each presenting traditional and signature dishes prepared live.
A highlight of the festival will be the recognition of 15 distinguished chefs from Hyderabad, who will be honored as "ICON Chefs of Hyderabad" for their contributions to the city's culinary scene.
The first competitive round of YCO 2026 will take place in Hyderabad on February 3, 2026, marking the city's integral role in this international culinary event.
