Varna University of Management excelled in the National Culinary Forum “Chef’s Secrets – Evolution of Taste” 2026
The Culinary Arts Institute at Varna University of Management took an active and impressive part in the National Culinary Forum “Chef’s Secrets – Evolution of Taste” 2026, which was held at the Stara Zagora Cultural Centre in the period January 31 – February 1, 2026. The event brought together leading professionals, young talents and educational institutions from across the country and once again established itself as a key platform for development and exchange in the field of culinary art.
During the two days of the forum, the VUM stand enjoyed an exceptionally high level of interest. Representatives of the Admissions Department, lecturers and university students spoke with students, parents and guests of the event, introducing them to the university’s educational programmes, the application requirements, as well as the opportunities for internships and professional development in high-class restaurants and hotels, including those with Michelin stars.
A special highlight were the culinary demonstrations presented by students of the Culinary Arts Institute under the guidance of Chef Hugues Boutin – Director and Head Chef Instructor. Students Sandrina Yaneva and Sofia Kovalevska impressed the audience with the dish Venison steak with sweet notes – triple chocolate sauce, carrot purée with caramelised cream, glazed baby carrots, pickled beetroot, and charred orange gel. Their colleagues Toma Goranov and Ognjen Radenovic presented an original dessert – Banana Nitro Panna Cotta, which was also welcomed with a strong interest among the guests.
The forum was a real opportunity for professional development for the Culinary Arts Institute students. They created valuable contacts in the industry, exchanged experiences with established professionals and returned to the university inspired with new ideas and motivation. Their participation once again proved that the combination of talent, passion and discipline is the key to a successful career in the culinary world.
During the event, the VUM team also had the pleasure of supporting young and ambitious students who actively participated in the organisation of the forum, assisting with logistics and coordination. In recognition of their dedication and motivation, the most active participants were awarded special motivational scholarships for studies at Varna University of Management – a real step towards future education in an international academic environment.
The VUM team expresses its sincere gratitude to the organisers from the Bulgarian Association for Culinary Culture, as well as especially to Toni Ivanov and Petar Yorgov, for the high professionalism, excellent organisation and inspiring atmosphere, which made the forum a true celebration of taste and creativity.
VUM’s participation in the National Culinary Forum “Chef’s Secrets – Evolution of Taste” 2026 once again confirmed the university’s commitment to practical training, support for young talents and active connection with the professional culinary industry.
