Recap of the Bocuse d'Or Culinary Canvas: A Night of Art, Music, and Gastronomy

Last Friday, I stepped into JaceSpace in Auckland for what would be an unforgettable evening—the Bocuse d'Or Culinary Canvas fundraiser. From the very moment I arrived, the energy in the room was contagious. Laughter, the clink of glasses, and the buzz of excited conversations filled the air. It was clear that this wasn’t just another event—this was a celebration of creativity, community, and unparalleled culinary talent.

Culinary Magic

The food stations were nothing short of a gastronomic wonderland. Each station showcased dishes crafted by some of New Zealand’s finest chefs, and the creativity on display was astounding. From melt-in-your-mouth salmon to bold and smoky meats and delicate desserts that looked almost too beautiful to eat, every bite told a story. The chefs were on hand to present their creations, and it was an honour to meet these culinary maestros and hear about the inspiration behind their dishes. It was also wonderful to meet the team that will be representing NZ in Lyon and what it will be like.

The highlight for me was a dish that combined local Alpine salmon with a citrus glaze and a subtle hint of fennel. Paired with a crisp white wine from Steinlager’s station, it was a perfect balance of flavours and textures. Oh and how could one forget the deserts by Choux. WOW.

Drinks and Cheers

Speaking of beverages, the curated cocktail list was as creative as the food. The Highland Park bar featured whisky-based cocktails that warmed the soul, while the Piper-Heidsieck Champagne bar kept the bubbles flowing along with the Villa Maria wines. I couldn’t resist a signature cocktail—a clever mix of gin, elderflower, and a dash of lavender syrup. It was refreshing and aromatic, complementing the evening’s fare beautifully.

A Feast for the Eyes and Ears

It wasn’t just about the food and drink. The visual art display was a showstopper in its own right. A series of curated pieces by talented local artists lined the walls, each one capturing themes of innovation and passion. The art added a dynamic backdrop to the evening, reminding us that creativity takes many forms—whether on a plate, a canvas, or a stage.

Adding to the ambience was a world-class DJ who kept the vibe alive. The beats were infectious, and by the end of the night, a few brave souls (myself included) were swaying to the rhythm. Music has a way of connecting people, and it was the perfect touch to an already incredible event.

A Cause Worth Supporting

The true heart of the evening, however, was the cause. Team Bocuse d'Or NZ is gearing up to compete on the world stage in Lyon, France, in January 2025, and this fundraiser was all about supporting their journey. Hearing from the team and learning about the dedication it takes to represent New Zealand in such a prestigious competition was inspiring. It felt good to know that simply by attending, I was playing a small part in their success.

Final Thoughts

As the evening drew to a close, I found myself lingering, reluctant to leave the warm and vibrant atmosphere. The Bocuse d'Or Culinary Canvas wasn’t just a night out; it was an experience that celebrated the best of New Zealand’s culinary and artistic talent. From the food and drink to the art and music, every detail was carefully curated to create something truly magical.

I left with a full stomach, a happy heart, and a renewed appreciation for the incredible talent we have in this country. Here’s to Team Bocuse d'Or NZ—I’ll be cheering them on as they take on the world in Lyon!