TEAM
SINGAPORE
Singapore Claims Top Spot in Asia at Bocuse d’Or 2025!
Chef Mathew Leong, representing Bocuse d’Or Singapore, made history by finishing as the top-ranked Asian country at the Bocuse d’Or 2025 in Lyon, securing an impressive 6th place overall out of 24 competing countries! This remarkable achievement not only surpassed his 12th place finish in 2021, but it also cemented Singapore’s position as a force to be reckoned with on the global culinary stage. Holding his own against Europe’s and Scandinavia’s traditional culinary powerhouses, Chef Mathew’s result marked the best-ever performance for Singapore at the competition since 1989—a true testament to his skill, passion, and relentless pursuit of excellence!
Throughout two high-pressure challenges, Chef Mathew and Commis Chef Synva Knapstad Gjerde showcased their extraordinary talent with their competition plate “Aurora of Flavours: A Sea-to-Garden Voyage” and competition platter “Blossoms of Tropical & Forest.” These stunning creations captivated the judges and left a lasting impact.
Chef Mathew’s success is a proud moment for Bocuse d’Or Singapore, proving that with dedication, passion, and hard work, extraordinary things are possible. This achievement remains a powerful reminder that our Singaporean talents can also reach for the world stage and make their own mark on the global culinary map!
Singapore Claims Top Spot in Asia at Bocuse d'Or 2025!
Chef Mathew Leong, representing Bocuse d’Or Singapore, made history by finishing as the top-ranked Asian country at the Bocuse d’Or 2025 in Lyon, securing an impressive 6th place overall out of 24 competing countries! This remarkable achievement not only surpassed his 12th place finish in 2021, but it also cemented Singapore’s position as a force to be reckoned with on the global culinary stage. Holding his own against Europe’s and Scandinavia’s traditional culinary powerhouses, Chef Mathew’s result marked the best-ever performance for Singapore at the competition since 1989—a true testament to his skill, passion, and relentless pursuit of excellence!
Throughout two high-pressure challenges, Chef Mathew and Commis Chef Synva Knapstad Gjerde showcased their extraordinary talent with their competition plate “Aurora of Flavours: A Sea-to-Garden Voyage” and competition platter “Blossoms of Tropical & Forest.” These stunning creations captivated the judges and left a lasting impact.
Chef Mathew’s success is a proud moment for Bocuse d’Or Singapore, proving that with dedication, passion, and hard work, extraordinary things are possible. This achievement remains a powerful reminder that our Singaporean talents can also reach for the world stage and make their own mark on the global culinary map!
Bruno Menard brings with him a wealth of culinary expertise, spanning over 35 years.
His remarkable career includes a tenure at L’Osier in Tokyo, where he led the restaurant’s ascent to Three Michelin stars. In 2015, he founded the Bocuse d’Or Academy Singapore, demonstrating his commitment to showcasing and elevating Singapore’s culinary prowess on the global stage.
Julien Royer is the Co-Owner of Odette, an esteemed three Michelin-starred modern French restaurant situated within the prestigious National Gallery Singapore.
Revered within the industry as a champion of culinary talent, Julien is deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of chefs poised to make their mark on the global culinary scene. He brought his expertise to bear as a mentor and judge for the San Pellegrino Young Chef Competition 2022-2023.
Mathew debuted at Bocuse d’Or 2021 Grand Final as the youngest Singapore candidate.
The 28-year-old is the Executive Chef of RE-NAA, Norway’s only Three Michelin-starred restaurant in Stavanger. Mathew is first and only Singaporean to make the acclaimed Forbes 30 under 30 Europe List under the Arts & Culture category.
Hailing from Voss in Fjord Norway, Synva currently works for Fire Makroner, a patisserie in Elverum.
Synva’s first brush with Bocuse d’Or was while she was part of the Norwegian national team of chefs two years ago. She participated in the Norwegian Championship for apprentice chefs and clinched the first place. Joining forces with Mathew this time, Synva is armed with the same goal and raring to go for the 2025 Bocuse d’Or Grand Final in Lyon.
Countdown to
Bocuse d’Or Grand Final
in Lyon
Days
Hours
Minutes
Seconds
THE
COMPETITION
Created by world-renowned French chef Paul Bocuse in 1987, Bocuse d’Or is widely recognised as the most prestigious and rigorous international chef competition in the world.
The bi-annual event takes place in Lyon, France at SIRHA Lyon, the global summit for chefs and hospitality professionals, and brings together 24 of the world’s brightest chefs to compete for the highest honour in their careers. Held over 2 days, each team will be tasked to present 2 dishes in 5 hours and 35 minutes.
Candidates not only face off against each other in a culinary theatre in front of a live streaming audience, media and thousands of eager spectators, they will also compete under the watchful eyes of a panel of judges comprising of some of the most distinguished chefs in the world.
Singaporean chef Mathew Leong is gearing up for his biggest challenge yet as he competes in the Bocuse d’Or Grand Final in January 2025, representing our country on the world stage. Recently, he spoke to Wui Lynn on Eat Drink Singapore about his journey, the mentors who have supported him along the way, and how Singaporeans can rally behind him as he takes on this prestigious competition. Big thanks to @channelnewsasia and Wui Lynn for the shoutout.
Click the link in our story and listen to this episode to find out more!
@mathew_leong
#bocusedor #bocusesg #bocusedorsingapore #bocusedorasiapacific #roadtolyon #frenchgastronomy #singapore #culinaryarts #chef
Nov 8
Welcome to Team Singapore’s kitchen, the heart and soul of every amazing dish. Right here in Stavanger, Norway, is where all the flavour, passion, and creativity come together. Every plate is crafted with love and precision. Chef Mathew is turning up the heat, and we’re all rooting for him!
@mathew_leong
@bruno_menard
@chef_julien
@chef_sebastien_lepinoy
@chefericteo
@ottoweibel
@emmanuelstroobant
@chefkirk_w
@beppedevito
@lerouy_
@jeremygillon
@jimchok
@ahzaveahzave
@edmondhofotografie
@mamayeowdevito
@adelinewongcy
#bocusedor #bocusesg #bocusedorsingapore #roadtolyon #culinaryarts #chef
Oct 24
This training kitchen in Stavanger, Norway, is where all the magic happens. During his free time, Chef Mathew Leong has been grinding it out here, labouring over every aspect of his competition game.
Now, as he gears up for the Bocuse d’Or Grand Final with his commis and teammate Chef Synva, the pressure is full on, but so is the support. The village is behind him all the way!
@mathew_leong
@bruno_menard
@chef_julien
@chef_sebastien_lepinoy
@chefericteo
@ottoweibel
@emmanuelstroobant
@chefkirk_w
@beppedevito
@lerouy_
@jeremygillon
@jimchok
@ahzaveahzave
@edmondhofotografie
@mamayeowdevito
@adelinewongcy
#bocusedor #bocusesg #bocusedorsingapore #roadtolyon #culinaryarts #chef
Oct 17
With over 20 years of experience as a chef and culinary consultant, Jimmy Chok is a well-known figure in Singapore’s F&B scene.
As a judge during Chef Mathew Leong’s formative years, Jimmy recognised his potential and invited him to spend a day at his restaurant. Since then, Jimmy has been Mathew’s steadfast supporter, watching him grow as a chef. Now, as Chef-Mentor, Jimmy is once again supporting Mathew on his journey to the Bocuse d’Or Grand Final in Lyon.
@jimchok
@mathew_leong
#bocusedor #bocusesg #bocusedorsingapore #bocusedorasiapacific #roadtolyon #frenchgastronomy #singapore #culinaryarts #chef
Oct 3
We’re still over the moon about the news that Team Singapore, has made it to the Grand Final of Bocuse d’Or 2025. 🇸🇬✨ Onward to Lyon to showcase our culinary excellence on the world stage, Chef Mathew!
Huge congratulations to the respective teams from Vietnam, Japan, New Zealand, and Australia on your achievement!
@mathew_leong
@bruno_menard
@chef_julien
@chef_sebastien_lepinoy
@chefericteo
@ottoweibel
@emmanuelstroobant
@chefkirk_w
@beppedevito
@lerouy_
@jeremygillon
@jimchok
@ahzaveahzave
@edmondhofotografie
@mamayeowdevito
@adelinewongcy
@kimnicolechanel
#bocusedor #bocusesg #bocusedorsingapore #roadtolyon #culinaryarts #chef
Sep 26
Raise your flag for Team Singapore! 🇸🇬 We’re thrilled to announce that Chef Mathew Leong has secured a spot in the Bocuse d’Or Grand Final!
Supported by an extraordinary team of mentors and chefs, Mathew is training tirelessly for the world’s most prestigious culinary competition. We can’t wait to see him showcase his creative magic on the international stage!
@mathew_leong
@bruno_menard
@chef_julien
@chef_sebastien_lepinoy
@chefericteo
@ottoweibel
@emmanuelstroobant
@chefkirk_w
@beppedevito
@lerouy_
@jeremygillon
@jimchok
@ahzaveahzave
@edmondhofotografie
@mamayeowdevito
@adelinewongcy
@kimnicolechanel
#bocusedor #bocusesg #bocusedorsingapore #roadtolyon #culinaryarts #chef
Sep 24
With 15 years of experience preparing students for successful culinary careers, Toh Chia Wee Zave, Assistant Director, Hospitality Culinary Skills, Institute of Technical Education, transitioned from the restaurant scene, where he worked with Les Amis Group, to training future-ready chefs. He enjoys the shift from the fast-paced world of F&B hospitality to nurturing young talents, helping them grow into confident professionals. As Chef-Mentor for Bocuse d`Or Singapore, he continues to champion local chefs on the international stage, sharing his experience and resources with the next generation. 🍽️✨
@ahzaveahzave
@mathew_leong
#bocusdor #bocusesg #bocusedorsingapore #bocusedorasiapacific #roadtolyon #frenchgastronomy #singapore #culinaryarts #chef
Sep 19
With his mastery of French culinary traditions, Chef Jeremy Gillon brings creativity and flair to every plate. As the Chef-Owner of One Michelin-starred Restaurant JAG, he’s known for the use of seasonal, sustainably sourced ingredients. In his role as Chef-Mentor of Bocuse d’Or Singapore, Gillian supports Chef Matthew Leong in his exciting journey to the prestigious podium.
@jeremygillon
@mathew_leong
#bocusdor #bocusesg #bocusedorsingapore #bocusedorasiapacific #roadtolyon #frenchgastronomy #singapore #culinaryarts #chef
Sep 13
Founder of ilLido Group, Beppe de Vito is the chef-restaurateur of One Michelin-starred Italian restaurant Braci. As a stalwart in the local dining scene, Beppe has witnessed the progress of Singapore’s culinary talent and development over the past few years. Impressed by his tenacity and resolute passion, Beppe is firmly behind Chef Mathew Leong’s aim to reach the Bocuse d’Or Grand Final.
@beppedevito
@mathew_leong
#bocusdor #bocusesg #bocusedorsingapore #bocusedorasiapacific #roadtolyon #frenchgastronomy #singapore #culinaryarts #chef
Sep 5
Bocuse d’Or Singapore has assembled some of the finest chefs in the country to support Chef’s Mathew Leong’s bid for the podium. Meet one of our chef-mentors, Christophe Lerouy. The Chef-Owner of One Michelin-starred Lerouy certainly knows a thing or two about leading his team to victory. He previously helmed Alma by Juan Amador when it received its Michelin star in 2016.
@lerouy_
@mathew_leong
#bocusdor #bocusesg #bocusedorsingapore #bocusedorasiapacific #roadtolyon #frenchgastronomy #singapore #culinaryarts #chef
Aug 30
Promoting Singapore’s excellence in the culinary arts to a global audience is Belgium born turned Singaporean Emmanuel Stroobant’s way of giving back to his country. To nurture a new generation of future-ready Singapore chefs, the Chef-Owner of Two Michelin-starred Saint Pierre helped launch the Singapore Delegation of Disciples Escoffier International Association and also served as the judge of the Young Talents Escoffier Competition last year.
As chef-mentor of Bocuse d’Or Singapore, Emmanuel actively supports Chef Mathew Leong’s bid for the trophy in Lyon. Up, up and away @mathew_leong
@emmanuelstroobant
#bocusdor #bocusesg #bocusedorsingapore #bocusedorasiapacific #roadtolyon #frenchgastronomy #singapore #culinaryarts #chef
Aug 15
🇸🇬🎉 Happy National Day, Singapore! 🎉🇸🇬
As Singapore’s own, Chef Mathew Leong takes to the global stage, he carries with him the spirit of our country’s passion and hard work.
Today, we celebrate the diversity and strength that make Singapore special. Here`s to more amazing achievements ahead! 🍽️❤️
#NationalDaySG #ChefMathewLeong #SingaporeSon #CulinaryExcellence #SGUnited #BocuseDor
Aug 9
Countdown to D-Day: only 184 days until the Bocuse d`Or Grand Final in Lyon! 🏆✨ Chef Mathew Leong and his team are hard at work for the big showcase. Keep an eye out for more updates as we get closer to the world’s most prestigious culinary competition. #BocuseDor #TeamSingapore #CulinaryExcellence #RoadToLyon
Jul 26
Our mission to send Chef Mathew Leong to compete at Bocuse d’Or Asia Pacific selection and Grand Final thrives on the generous support of individual and corporate sponsors, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to all of you who have supported us on this journey thus far.
Throwback to our successful fundraising event at Summer Pavilion! After the work was done, our amazing chefs celebrated with an after-party and a well-deserved champagne toast.
Huge thanks again to @chefcheungsiukong and his team for their incredible efforts, alongside @mathew_leong , our Bocuse d’Or candidate and Executive Chef of the newly minted Three Michelin-starred RE-NAA. Thumbs up for our food and beverage sponsors: @classicfinefoodssg , @gourmetpartnersg , @indoguna_singapore , @champagnepommery, @evianwater , @mrotaru_sg , and @thevintagewineclub_sg
Jul 19
Meet Chef Synva Knapstad Gjerde @synvagjerde from Voss, Norway 🇳🇴. Synva`s journey with Bocuse d`Or began with the Norwegian national team when she won first place in the championship for apprentice chefs.
She now takes on the role of a commis, as part of Team Singapore’s participation in the Asia-Pacific selection and Grand Final. 🇸🇬As Chef Mathew’s indispensable partner for this competition, she has been training closely with him, dedicating many hours at every available training session.
Jul 16
🎥 Meet the Dream Team Behind Chef Mathew Leong 🇸🇬
We’re thrilled to introduce the phenomenal team backing Chef Mathew Leong as they gear up for the Bocuse d`Or Asia Pacific selection in Shenzhen and the Grand Final in Lyon! 🍽️
The countdown begins – only 198 days until the Grand Final! 🌏
If you or your company would like to support our #TeamSingapore mission, please email Bruno Menard at bm@menardbruno.com
#BocusedOr2025 #TeamSingapore
Jul 12
#Throwback Here’s another competition dish from Chef Mathew Leong for Bocuse d`Or Grand Final in 2021, Variation of Jerusalem Artichoke.
The young chef is keeping his senses sharp as he prepares another culinary masterpiece for Bocuse d’Or Asia Pacific selection.
If you or your company would like to support our #TeamSingapore mission, please email bm@menardbruno.com
Jul 9
Special thanks to @channelnewsasia and @littlehappyideas for this fantastic feature on Chef Matthew Leong, highlighting the remarkable efforts of the Bocuse d’Or Singapore Academy team and our sponsors in championing his journey.
With just 205 days until the Grand Final, Chef Matthew is gearing up for his performance on the global stage 🌎, and we are all ready to rally behind him 🏆🇸🇬.
If you would like to support #TeamSingapore with a donation, please email Bocuse d’Or Singapore’s Team President, Bruno Menard, at bm@menardbruno.com. The funds raised will go towards Chef Matthew’s training expenses for the competition.
Jul 5
Chef Mathew Leong found himself facing a unique challenge for the Bocuse d’Or Grand Final in 2021. Participants were required to craft a takeaway box, in light of the Covid-19 pandemic, and to create a multi-course meal using tomatoes as an ingredient. tomatoes. He spent four months conceptualising the dishes and a reusable box inspired by Singapore Botanic Gardens. Check out this Trilogy of Tomato, featuring XO Prawn with Confit Tomato & Cauliflower Flan, and a Texture of Tomato.
We are eagerly awaiting his next move for Bocuse d`Or Asia Pacific selection! Stay tuned! 🍅🍤👀 @mathew_leong
#BocusedOr #BocuseSG #BocusedOrSingapore #BocusedOrAsiaPacific #RoadToLyon #FrenchGastronomy #Singapore #CulinaryArts #SirhaLyon #ChefMathew
Jul 2
Our heartfelt gratitude to Bragard, our Chef’s Uniform Partner, for their generous support during our recent Four Hands fundraising event.
For the upcoming Asia-Pacific selection and Grand Final, Team Singapore will proudly don chef uniforms made by Bragard.
Jun 28
This error message is only visible to WordPress admins
There has been a problem with your Instagram Feed.
© 2024 SIRHA FOOD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.