Quique Dacosta Joins the Jury of World’s Creative Chef 2026

2026.07.03

At World’s Creative Chef, we continue to bring together outstanding talent, expertise, and culinary excellence for what promises to be one of the most exciting editions in the competition’s history.

We are therefore delighted to announce that Quique Dacosta will join the jury for the World’s Creative Chef 2026 Grand Final, taking place on 16 November in Madrid.

Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in international gastronomy, Quique Dacosta has built an exceptional career defined by creativity, innovation, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. His appointment is a significant milestone for the competition and further reinforces the prestige of an event that brings together some of the most accomplished professionals in contemporary cuisine.

With Quique Dacosta joining the panel, the World’s Creative Chef 2026 jury reaches an extraordinary level of expertise. He will be joined by internationally renowned culinary leaders including Diego Guerrero, Najat Kaanache, Clare Smyth, and Paco Roncero, forming a distinguished panel whose collective experience and vision represent some of the most influential movements in modern gastronomy.

Excitement surrounding this year’s edition continues to grow. The eight finalists have already been selected, and the standard of competition promises to be exceptional. Many of them lead MICHELIN-starred restaurants and represent some of the most innovative and creative culinary concepts on the international stage. Their participation will make this final a remarkable showcase of talent, technical mastery, and culinary innovation.

More than a competition, World’s Creative Chef has established itself as a platform for inspiration, knowledge sharing, and the celebration of culinary creativity. The event brings together chefs, industry professionals, specialised media, and gastronomy enthusiasts with a shared ambition: to push the boundaries of cuisine and recognise the talent shaping its future.

For the organisers, welcoming Quique Dacosta to this year’s edition is a true privilege. His vision of gastronomy, his pioneering spirit, and his outstanding contribution to contemporary cuisine will bring invaluable insight to the evaluation of the finalists and the competition as a whole.

On 16 November, Madrid will become the international capital of culinary creativity. With an exceptional jury and eight world-class finalists, World’s Creative Chef 2026 is set to deliver a Grand Final that promises to be truly unforgettable.