Chef Kaloyan Kolev has over 15 years of professional experience in the field, always carrying a passion for culinary arts. He is open to exploring new cultures and cuisines and has successfully worked in a fast-paced environment, always ready to face new challenges. Chef Kaloyan completed his international culinary education in 2014, during which he undertook two internships abroad – at “Market by Jean-Georges” in Doha, Qatar, and at “Jean-Georges Steakhouse” in Washington, USA. Even at a young age, he had the rare opportunity to work on three different continents, allowing him to engage with and gain experience from renowned European, American, and Asian chefs. Before joining the team at the Culinary Arts Institute at Varna University of Management, Chef Kaloyan worked for 5 years in Norway, including as a Sous Chef to Geir Skeie, winner of the prestigious Bocuse d'Or culinary competition in 2009. This invaluable experience has helped him successfully adapt different flavours, aromas, and ingredients, enabling him to showcase and demonstrate his skills across a wide range of national cuisines from various parts of the world. Through his global work experience, Chef Kaloyan has developed solid communication and organisational skills, as well as the ability to effectively teach his students. Organised, creative, and innovative in presentations, he has a talent for using products and ingredients in the most efficient way, with minimal costs and no waste of time.
His rich professional background has led Chef Kolev to notable successes. Some of these include:

• 2nd place for Best Team at the Bulgarian Culinary Cup 2018
• 3 gold medals at the International Culinary Competition in Aydın, Turkey, 2018
• 1st place for “Best International Chef” and a bronze medal for “Best International Team” at Gastromak 2018 in North Macedonia
• Gold medal for “Best Chef of the Year” at the 11th International Culinary Competition in Southern Europe, held in Thessaloniki, Greece, early 2019
• 2nd place and silver medal in the “Restaurant Dessert” category at the 12th International Culinary Competition of Southern Europe in Thessaloniki, Greece, 2023
• 4th place out of 11 teams at the Biorest Cup in the “Best Culinary Team” competition, with Chef Kaloyan Kolev, Diana Markova, and Dimitar Paskov.

His dedication and pursuit of excellence have not only established him as a leading figure in the culinary industry but also contributed to the development of the next generation of chefs. Chef Kaloyan Kolev continues to inspire and educate with his passion and commitment, leaving a lasting impact on the world of culinary arts.