Culinary competitions have the power to transform careers and take a chef’s creativity chops to the next level. Take Kandice, for example. After competing in Marriott’s Masters of the Craft, she found herself on a new trajectory in her culinary journey. “Winning the competition opened doors I never knew existed,” she reflects. Now a sous chef at The Royal Hawaiian, Kandice’s story is just one of many that illustrates the impact of this prestigious event.
Masters of the Craft is a continent-wide competition that showcases the exceptional talent of Marriott’s culinary professionals and bartenders across the U.S. and Canada. The event begins with contests at a regional level where participants create dishes featuring a mystery ingredient. Each dish is evaluated based on presentation, creativity, taste, and storytelling.
This competition is not just an event; it’s a cornerstone of Marriott’s culinary culture, encouraging chefs to innovate and collaborate while fostering a strong community among culinary teams.
→ Learn About the Wide Range of Culinary Career Journeys at Marriott
Real People, Real Impact
For participants like Narae, the competition was a pivotal moment in her career. “Winning the hotel-level competition and advancing through the Canada region was not an easy journey,” she shares. Narae’s creation, an Ile flottante, not only showcased her skills but also led to her promotion to sous chef. “I learned that with hard work and dedication, the results will always follow.
Kandice echoes this sentiment, stating, “After the competition, my chefs told me my next step is to be a Chef. Winning put my name out there with all the sister properties.” Her journey reflects how Masters of the Craft can elevate careers and provide visibility within the industry.
Heidi, now an Assistant Food and Beverage Manager at the Ritz-Carlton Sarasota, credits her success to the competition as well. “Winning Master of the Craft has been a wonderful blessing,” she says. Her participation has opened doors for networking and media exposure, allowing her to grow and even start her own business.
A Recipe for Growth
The competition hones vital skills like creativity and teamwork. As Kandice puts it, “Every challenge in the competition taught me something new that I apply in my daily work.” Networking is another significant advantage; Heidi emphasizes the value of meeting industry leaders during the competition. “This competition will allow you to think quickly, sharpen your skills, and you will have the best time of your life doing it,” she advises future participants.
“Masters of the Craft” is more than just a competition; it’s a journey of passion, growth, and connection. For many culinary professionals, it’s a chance to discover their true potential and share their love for food with the world. As Kandice, Narae, and Heidi show us, the experience can ignite a spark that leads to incredible opportunities and lasting friendships.
If you’re ready to challenge yourself, share your creativity, and make your mark in the culinary world, don’t hesitate. Embrace the adventure—join us in the next Masters of the Craft competition and let your passion shine!
