Next Tuesday, September 16, 15 chefs from high-end hotels will compete for the title of “Best Afternoon Tea Time in the UAE,” by Candia Professional, Veliche, and Masterbaker.

Candidates will have five hours to present six creations making up an afternoon tea time: three sweet pastries, one gluten-free, one local-flavored, and one sweet & savory. All pieces must use one product from the Candia Professional Signature Range (Gourmet Cream 40%, Whipping Cream 35%, or Gourmet Butter) and one product from Veliche (Milk, Dark, White chocolate, or Caramel). The winner will enjoy a trip to France and Belgium to visit the Veliche and Candia Professional factories.

The jury will be composed of four highly recognized chefs in Dubai: François Galtier (Bronze Winner of the World Pastry Cup), Steve Thiery (Executive Pastry Chef of Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab), Ilhame Guerrah (Former Executive Pastry Chef of various five star hotels internationally), and Tom Thomas (Senior Bakery Chef of Richemont Masterbaker School).

This exclusive event is hosted by Nicole Mrad, a Lebanese chef and entrepreneur, founder of CupNcakes Dubai LLC, known for her high-end 3D cakes. Very active on social media, she received the Popularity Award at the 2025 Food Influencers Awards.

At sogoodmagazine.com, we’ll be offering extensive coverage of everything happening in this unique competition.