Attendees of the sold-out 2025 Events DC Embassy Chef Challenge journeyed the globe by taste-sampling bites and beverages from 34 embassies when the Philippines and Peru chefs claimed the People’s Choice and Judges’ Choice Awards, respectively, at the historic Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium.
Culinary Showdown & Cultural Showcase
Hosted by restaurateur and Top Chef alum Spike Mendelsohn, the evening featured cultural performances and a fierce competition. Guests voted for their favorite embassy dishes, while a panel of culinary leadersincluding Chef Eric Adjepong and Eater’s Tierney Plumbselected the Judges’ Choice winners.
People’s Choice Awards
- First Place: Philippines – bangus a la pobre with garlic rice & eggplant salad
- Second Place: Saudi Arabia – lamb kabsa & basbousa semolina cake
- Third Place: Grenada – calypso mango shrimp salad
Judges’ Choice Awards
- First Place: Peru – Seco Norteño ravioli over loche squash emulsion
- Second Place: China – pineapple sweet-and-sour shrimp & osmanthus lotus root threads cake
- Third Place: Morocco – pastela with chicken and almond
Best Beverage Award
Chef Mykola Yudin of Ukraine was recognized for his Black Currant Nalyvka, shining among cocktails, mocktails, native wines, and teas.
Partners & Next Steps
This year’s event was made possible by Giant, Premium of DC, Chateau Ste. Michelle, Liquid Light, and Casamigos. Media photos and full recaps are available at Events DC Newsroom.
About Events DC:
Events DC is Washington, DC’s official convention and sports authority, managing premier venues including the Walter E. Washington Convention Center and RFK Stadium Campusand driving economic, cultural, and community impact through world-class events. Learn more at www.eventsdc.com.
