TENGIS BATTUR WINS THE S.PELLEGRINO YOUNG CHEF ACADEMY COMPETITION 2026-27 REGIONAL FINAL AND WILL REPRESENT CANADA AT THE GRAND FINALE IN MILAN

Following an outstanding performance at the Regional Final, Tengis Battur has secured a place at the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition 2027 Grand Finale, where he will compete alongside the world's most promising young chefs in Milan.

TORONTO, Nov. 3, 2026 /CNW/ -- S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy has crowned Tengis Battur as the winner of the Canada Regional Final of the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition 2026-27, earning the opportunity to represent the region at the prestigious Grand Finale in Milan in 2027.

The Regional Final brought together some of the country's most exciting emerging culinary talent, with finalists presenting their signature dishes to an esteemed Local Jury of internationally recognised chefs. Following a day of competition, Tengis Battur impressed the judges with the dish 'Steppe Into Spring', reflecting his journey and ambition to help shape the future of Mongolian cuisine on the world stage, demonstrating exceptional technical skill, creativity and a clear vision for the future of gastronomy.

"Winning the Canada Regional Final is an incredible honour and a meaningful milestone in my culinary journey, said Tengis Battur, winner of S.Pellegrino Young Chef Competition Regional Final. Through 'Steppe Into Spring', I wanted to share a story of my heritage while showcasing the creativity and potential of Mongolian cuisine. I'm grateful to the jury, my mentors and everyone who has supported me along the way, and I'm excited to represent Canada at the Grand Finale in Milan."

As Regional Winner, Tengis Battur now embarks on the next stage of his journey through the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy. Ahead of the Grand Finale, he will work closely with mentor Chef Alex Kim, Chef and Co-Owner of Five Sails Vancouver, who will provide guidance, support and expertise to help refine the chef's signature dish, develop their culinary philosophy and prepare them for the international stage.

"Tengis impressed the jury not only with his technical skill and creativity, but with the authenticity and purpose behind his dish," said Alex Kim, Mentor. "He has a clear culinary point of view and a strong desire to push boundaries while staying connected to his roots. As he prepares for the Grand Finale in Milan, I look forward to supporting him as he further develops his signature dish and showcases his talent on the international stage."

Three other chefs were awarded at the Regional Final, winning the collateral awards, and will have the chance to win respective global titles, also announced at the Grand Finale in 2027:

• S.PELLEGRINO FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AWARD – Kalyan Chakraborty, Ontario Rabbit and Everything It Ate for Dinner (recognizing chefs who demonstrate sustainable practices through their signature dish)
• ACQUA PANNA CONNECTION IN GASTRONOMY AWARD – Jungun Yang, A Tide Between Two Shores: A Haenyeo Story: From Busan to Vancouver (recognizing the chefs who successfully connect tradition with modernity in their culinary approach.)
• FINE DINING LOVERS AWARD – Jungun Yang, A Tide Between Two Shores: A Haenyeo Story: From Busan to Vancouver (recognizing the chef who best expresses their personal beliefs through their signature dish)

Hosted by Pay Chen, Judges Quinton Bennett, Briana Kim and Daniel Hadida kicked off the evening with a lively "SPARK" conversation, sharing perspectives on mentorship, culinary innovation and the future of the industry. The gala also celebrated the achievements of the regional finalists, highlighted the creativity and passion showcased throughout the competition, and brought together chefs, mentors, industry leaders and culinary enthusiasts for an evening recognizing the next generation of culinary talent in Canada.

To stay updated with announcements and news about the exciting initiative that aims to discover and nurture brilliant, boundary-pushing talents, you can visit https://www.sanpellegrinoyoungchefacademy.com/ or visit Instagram.

About S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Gastronomy has the potential to transform society, shaping a more inclusive, more sustainable future. But doing so requires talent. That's why S.Pellegrino has created S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy, a platform to attract, connect and nurture the next generation of culinary talents. An environment that will empower them through education, mentoring and networking opportunities, as well as through the renowned global competition.

The Academy opens its doors to members from over 70 different countries, ensuring that talent is not constrained by geography, ethnicity or gender. This is a place where passionate young chefs interact with the most influential players in global gastronomy, and where together they cultivate an inspiring culinary community.

To discover more please visit: https://www.sanpellegrinoyoungchefacademy.com/

About S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna S.Pellegrino, Acqua Panna and Sanpellegrino Italian Sparkling Drinks are international trademarks of Sanpellegrino S.p.A., which is based in Milan, Italy. Distributed in over 150 countries through branches and distributors on all five continents, these products represent quality, excellence by virtue of their origins and perfectly interpret Italian style worldwide as a synthesis of pleasure, health and well-being. Founded in 1899, Sanpellegrino S.p.A. is the leading company in the beverage sector in Italy with its range of mineral waters, non-alcoholic aperitifs and drinks. Sanpellegrino has always been committed to enhancing this primary good for the planet and works responsibly and passionately to ensure that this resource has a secure future.

SOURCE Sanpellegrino Group

For more information: Golin Ketchum, Samiha Fariha, [email protected]