ICF Announces 22nd Annual Chef Awards & Knowledge Summit: India’s Grand Culinary Showcase Returns in 2025
New Delhi, September 2025: The Indian Culinary Forum (ICF) is set to host the 22nd Annual Chef Awards on October 13, 2025, at the prestigious The Ashok, New Delhi. Known as India’s biggest celebration of culinary excellence, this much-anticipated event will bring together the nation’s top chefs, hospitality leaders, and food enthusiasts for an unforgettable culinary extravaganza.
With over 250 participants competing across 12 diverse categories, this year’s Chef Awards promise to highlight the incredible talent shaping India’s food and beverage industry. From International Confectionary and Oriental Cuisine to North & South Indian Specialties, Indian Sweets, and Kebabs, the competition will showcase the depth and diversity of India’s culinary landscape. Exciting segments such as Fruit & Vegetable Carving on the theme “Agricultural Farm” will also be part of the event, with judges evaluating participants on parameters like hygiene, presentation, taste, and sustainability.
Honoring Culinary Legends & Emerging Talent
The Presidium Recognition Awards will shine a spotlight on industry veterans, with prestigious honors including the Lifetime Achievement Award, Golden Hat, Silver Hat, Academic Silver Hat, Pastry Chef of the Year, and Lady Chef of the Year. The much-coveted Shri. Anil Bhandari Memorial – Chef of the Year Award will recognize culinary professionals with over a decade of experience who have left a lasting impact on the industry.
Adding to the excitement, winners of the Master Chef categories will now receive ₹20,000 in prize money, marking a new milestone in the event’s legacy.
13th Knowledge Summit: Tradition Meets Technology
Running alongside the Chef Awards, the 13th Knowledge Summit will explore the theme “Tradition to Technology: Strategies for Success in the Culinary World.” Renowned chefs, hospitality experts, and industry influencers will discuss how modern technology, sustainability practices, and wellness trends are shaping the future of gastronomy while staying true to India’s rich culinary heritage.
ICF: Shaping India’s Culinary Future Since 1987
Founded in 1987 under the leadership of Late Chef Arvind Saraswat, the Indian Culinary Forum has been the driving force behind India’s culinary evolution. With global recognition and ties to the World Association of Chefs Societies (WACS), the ICF continues to elevate the culinary profession through competitions, knowledge-sharing platforms, and international collaborations.
Why This Event Matters
The 22nd Annual Chef Awards and Knowledge Summit 2025 represent much more than a competition. They are a celebration of India’s culinary innovation, heritage, and future, providing a platform where tradition meets technology and passion meets recognition.
Mark your calendars for October 13, 2025, and witness India’s finest culinary minds come together at The Ashok, New Delhi, for an event that promises to be nothing short of spectacular. 
