The MSME Council, part of the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF), has announced the inaugural “Gourmet Street Food” cook-off, set to take place in Suva next month. Scheduled for the 27th at the Paradiso Restaurant grounds, this fundraising event aims to support the advocacy efforts of the FCEF MSME Council in Fiji.
The initiative seeks to elevate and acknowledge street food vendors by providing them with a platform to showcase their culinary talents. Watesoni Nata, the chairman of the MSME Council, explained that the primary goal is to highlight street food vendors and encourage creativity in street food preparation.
“We have opened registrations for street vendors and anyone else eager to express their culinary passion and improve their cooking skills,” Nata stated. Tickets for the event are priced at $30 and are available online through Ticket Max for general admission. The top three participants will compete for cash prizes ranging from $1,000 to $3,000, along with a one-year membership with the MSME Council.
Nata mentioned that there are 12 available spots for participants, and selections will be made based on creativity and the dishes they plan to prepare. French chef Phillipe Garand, a panellist for the event, encouraged participants to depict Fiji through their dishes and innovate street food concepts.
“I have worked in several countries, and when I enjoy their street food, I feel immersed in their culture,” Chef Garand remarked. “Fiji has an incredible variety of flavors, but street foods often remain basic. There’s immense potential to build upon what you have.”
Registration is currently open and is free, accessible via the FCEF MSME Council’s social media. The registration period will end on the 26th of this month, after which selected participants will need to pay a $100 fee.