In an era where experiential learning is redefining education, the International Institute of Culinary Arts (IICA) brought a delightful blend of creativity and culinary skill to life with its Kids Gourmet Dessert Masterclass at Shoppers Stop. Hosted at the vibrant Sector 66 outlet in Gurugram, the event turned an ordinary retail space into a lively kitchen of imagination and learning.
A Sweet Start to Culinary Exploration
The masterclass welcomed over 65 enthusiastic young participants, offering them a hands-on introduction to the art of gourmet dessert-making. More than just a workshop, it was an immersive experience designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and nurture creativity among budding chefs.
This marks the third successful collaboration between IICA and Shoppers Stop, reflecting a growing trend of integrating experiential activities within retail environments to engage customers in meaningful ways.
Learning from the Experts
The session was led by seasoned culinary professionals, including Dharmendra Kumar and Prashant Kumar. Together, they guided children through the preparation of two exciting recipes:
- Foxnut and Chocolate Rocks
- Fruit Trifle with Eggless Sponge
By simplifying gourmet techniques into easy, fun steps, the chefs ensured that every child could participate actively while grasping essential baking concepts.
Bridging Learning with Real-World Exposure
Adding depth to the session, IICA students—Gyan Vrat Arya and Aryan Jha—assisted the chefs during demonstrations. Their involvement not only enriched the learning environment but also highlighted IICA’s commitment to blending classroom education with hands-on industry exposure.
Culinary Education Meets Experiential Retail
Speaking about the initiative, Virender S. Datta emphasized the importance of such workshops in nurturing early culinary interest while creating memorable experiences. Meanwhile, Arjun S. Datta highlighted how collaborations like these help brands deepen customer engagement by offering unique, interactive activities.
This approach reflects a broader shift in the hospitality and retail sectors—where experience-driven engagement is becoming a key differentiator.
A Gateway to Culinary Careers
For those inspired by the workshop, IICA continues to open doors into the world of professional culinary arts. With registrations now open for the July 2026 batch at its Hauz Khas campus, aspiring chefs can access structured training, global certifications, and international career pathways.
Founded in 2005, IICA has consistently set benchmarks in culinary education, offering globally recognised qualifications and fostering international collaborations that connect Indian talent with global opportunities.
Final Thoughts
The Kids Gourmet Dessert Masterclass was more than just a fun-filled event—it was a celebration of creativity, learning, and the joy of cooking. By bringing together young minds, expert chefs, and an engaging retail setting, IICA and Shoppers Stop have once again demonstrated how culinary experiences can inspire the next generation while redefining customer engagement.
