InfoChef 2026 saw professional chefs, as well as learners interested in cooking, attend this two-day chef expo at the hotel school of the Central University of Technology (CUT), Free State.

The annual event, this year presented by the Free State branch of the South African Chefs Association on Thursday 16 April and Friday, has become a staple on the culinary calendar – bringing together professionals, students and food enthusiasts.

The event kicked off on Thursday with a business breakfast, providing a platform for industry leaders to exchange ideas. At the evening’s Chef’s Dinner, Marius Burger, head of the CUT Hotel School from 1997 to 2020, was honoured for his contribution to the industry.

On Friday, the Gr. 11 cook-off competition saw learners from schools in Bloemfontein and from as far as Bethlehem compete in the finals. Two teams of Hoërskool Fichardtpark took top honours. The Fichies team of Abigail du Toit and Liane Luüs won, and Rudi Smit and Ellan Fleischman came second.

In the competition for culinary schools, Goapaleloe Mokobe and Laone Mothibedi of the Culinary Hospitality Academy earned victory.

A tight battle evolved during the competition, where professional chefs took to the cooking stations showing their skills to the learners and students that attended InfoChef on Friday.

In the end it was the dish of Kathrada Sedikane that received the judges’ approval for being cooked with finesse and skill.

During the expo a variety of exhibitors of the culinary industry offered insights into new trends and products. The expo drew a diverse crowd of aspiring chefs, professionals, hoteliers, and all who are curious about the future of food.

Patso Nicolov, Free State chairperson of the South African Chef Association, says they will continue to foster culinary talent in the region, making InfoChef a highlight on Bloemfontein’s cultural calendar.