In Fiji, the love for food is reflected in its rich culinary diversity, influenced by various cultures. As lifestyles become busier, many residents are on the lookout for quick, healthy, and fulfilling meals. When home cooking isn’t feasible, restaurants and street food vendors often become the go-to choices.
While wandering the streets of Fiji, it’s common to notice that barbecue stands dominate the street food scene. This raises the question of why barbecue is the preferred option over other traditional dishes made from local ingredients.
To inspire a fresh perspective among street food vendors, the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) Council, part of the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF), is organizing the first-ever Cook-Off event on September 27.
Scheduled to take place at Paradiso Restaurant, this exciting event will feature 12 selected participants. It aims to highlight the talents of individuals running food businesses on the streets, operating cloud kitchens, or selling homemade food. The objective is to introduce healthy, quick street food options that transcend the typical barbecue fare.
Watesoni Nata, chair of the MSME Council, stated, “We want the people of Fiji to recognize that there is more to street food than just barbecue, whether during the day or night. We encourage the creation of a variety of quick, easy meals that can be enjoyed on the streets.”
Given the rise in non-communicable diseases, promoting healthy choices is essential. With an abundance of fruits and vegetables in Fiji, there is a significant opportunity to create nutritious street food offerings.
The Cook-Off event was officially announced on August 16 at the FCEF. Three hundred tickets are available for purchase at $30.00 through Ticket Max.
The competition invites anyone passionate about food, from established vendors to students interested in the industry. A panel of judges will select the top three contestants from the 12 participants, with prizes of $3000 for first place, $2000 for second, and $1500 for third, along with a one-year membership with the MSME Council.
One of the judges, Philippe Garand, a seasoned chef with international experience, is dedicated to promoting the creation of more local, traditional street food using native ingredients. He emphasized the need for creativity and skills in developing delicious and quick meals for public enjoyment.
The FCEF recognizes the MSME sector as the backbone of the economy, consisting of family-run and individually managed enterprises critical to the business landscape. The Federation prioritizes working with the MSME Council to ensure that the voices of small businesses are heard and their contributions valued.
FCEF supports the MSME Council’s initiative and encourages food vendors to participate in the upcoming Cook-Off event, which aims to celebrate the culinary talents of local entrepreneurs and foster lasting connections and growth.
The MSME Council also extends its gratitude to various organizations, including Fiji Development Bank and the Ministry of Trade, for their support in facilitating this event.