Our very own Skills Ignite campus transformed and buzzed with culinary energy on Tuesday, 29th July, as it became the epicenter of the 7th Australasian Tapas Competition. What unfolded was nothing short of extraordinary—a seven-hour cook-off that showcased the incredible talent defining our region’s culinary landscape.
Thirty-four of Australasia’s most skilled chefs transformed our state-of-the-art facilities into a vibrant battleground, each presenting tapas that celebrated local flavours through their unique creative and cultural lens. The atmosphere was electric, with passion and innovation flowing from every kitchen station.
Leading the charge was Jessabel Granada from Nanam restaurant, whose winning creation “The Storyteller” captivated judges and earned her the top prize and title of the Tapas Champ of 2025. Her wagyu beef sausage taco, elevated with chipotle mayonnaise, coriander, peanut BBQ sauce, and light pickle, demonstrated the perfect marriage of bold flavours and striking presentation.
Andrea Vignali from Melbourne’s Al Dente Enoteca claimed second place with equally impressive flair, while Renz Condino and Deepak Anand shared joint third place honours, rounding out a truly competitive field.
Both Jessabel and Andrea will now carry both the New Zealand and Australian flags to the World Tapas Competition in Valladolid, Spain, on November 10, 2025—as representatives and testaments to the calibre of talent our region produces.
The competition’s credibility was reinforced by an impressive judging lineup, led by Chef Mark Erickson, Provost at the Culinary Institute of America, alongside Angel Moretón, Director of the World Tapas Competition. Local culinary legends Michael Meredith, Brent Martin, Nancye Pirini, Patrick Ikinofo, Zenon Christian, noted restaurateur Chand Sahrawat, and Hospitality Business Editor Kimberley Dixon brought their expertise to evaluate each dish.
Our campus proved to be more than just a venue—it became an integral part of the competition’s success story, especially hosting the Australasian Tapas Competition since 2019. The Skills Ignite Hospitality team, which included our talented students and tutors, ensured seamless execution from service to event support, demonstrating the professional excellence that defines our institution.
This wasn’t merely about crowning winners; it was a celebration of pushing culinary boundaries, sharing stories through food, and showcasing the artistry that makes Australasian cuisine distinctive on the world stage.
The 7th Australasian Tapas Competition at Skills Ignite has once again proven that when world-class facilities meet extraordinary talent, culinary magic happens!
