Clotilde Ghibaudo and Tatiana Vernot, representing the Washington D.C. & Maryland team, were crowned winners of the second edition of the North American Pastry Championship (also known as the Roland Mesnier Trophy). Our Editor-in-Chief Carlos Barrachina attended this exciting competition live, organized by the Académie Culinaire de France USA & Canada Delegation at the Javits Center in New York City during the Summer Fancy Food Show on June 28–29.

Trained at the prestigious Ferrandi Paris, Clotilde Ghibaudo (the team captain) has built her career through renowned establishments including the Carlton Cannes and the iconic Burj Al Arab, while also earning recognition as the winner of the Young Pastry Chef Competition at the Étoiles de Mougins. Alon  of international fine dining expertise, including her role at the three-Michelin-starred El Celler de Can Roca and leadership positions across the United States, Spain, and Colombia. As winners, both will have the chance to become members of the USA team for the Coupe du Monde de la Pâtisserie.

Second place went to Ha Pham and Alexi Acevedo (Team Florida), and third place to Alexia Preoteau and Sara Boni (Team Montreal).

Under the theme “250th Anniversary of the USA,” the competitors had to present an elegant plated dessert, as well as a miniature lollipop dessert creation highlighting three distinct flavors and three unique textures. On the final day, each team unveiled their spectacular artistic creation, accompanied by entremets and 18 miniature desserts.

The competition was evaluated by a jury composed of pastry chefs and industry professionals of recognized international prestige, who valued not only the technical skills and creativity, but also the ability of the participants to represent the future of a more responsible pastry industry.