Great workplace dining is shaped by talented people, fresh thinking and a genuine passion for good food.
Hosted by Compass Group Australia, Hot Plate 2026 brought together chefs, clients and industry leaders to celebrate culinary creativity and explore the ideas influencing the future of food.
Rather than following a traditional cooking competition format, the finale became a vibrant street-food market. Guests could meet the chefs, discover the inspiration behind each concept and experience the energy of the competition up close.
A Proud Moment for Eurest
Eurest Australia was proudly represented by Le Nhung Bui, who presented Cluck-Inn: Vietnamese & Australian Charcoal-Grilled Chicken.
Combining Vietnamese and Australian influences, Le Nhung’s concept celebrated charcoal-grilled flavour, quality ingredients and vibrant street-food inspiration. It was a great example of the fresh, satisfying food that can bring energy and enjoyment to the working day.
“Watching our Eurest contestant perform in the final was an incredibly proud moment. The standard of competition was exceptional. Seeing the way she conducted herself as part of a broader team was a reflection of the commitment and culinary talent that exists across our business.
“More broadly, it reinforces the culture we’re building within Eurest, one that encourages our people to challenge themselves, develop their skills and take pride in their craft. Seeing one of our junior chefs represent the business at this level was a fantastic achievement for both the individual and the wider Eurest team.”
- Symon Moth, Eurest Executive Chef
Bringing People Together Through Food
Beyond the competition, Hot Plate created a space for chefs, clients and operators to connect naturally through food and conversation.
“What made Hot Plate unique was the energy and cross-sector engagement,” said Symon. “The street-market environment created genuine interaction between chefs, clients and operators, while the live competition added excitement and theatre.
“It showcased the incredible creativity and professionalism of the chefs and created a far more memorable experience than a traditional industry event.”
The evening also celebrated the achievements of this year’s podium winners:
- First place: Faith Gaspar, ESS
- Second place: Tuan Tran, Levy
- Third place: Maria Cirera, Chartwells
Looking Ahead
Hot Plate 2026 was a celebration of culinary talent, but it also demonstrated something we see every day: great food can bring people together, create memorable experiences and make the workplace feel better.
Congratulations to Le Nhung for representing Eurest with such skill and passion, and to every chef who took part.
To our Eurest chefs creating great food in workplaces across Australia, it’s time to start thinking about what you could bring to Hot Plate 2027.
The next great idea could be yours.
