EventsDC’s 11th Annual Embassy Chef Challenge

Culinary diplomacy and international travel were at the forefront of the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center during Events DC’s 11th Annual Embassy Chef Challenge. Presented by TCMA (A Drew Company), this unique event brings together embassy chefs from all over the world under one roof– a unique opportunity for guests to interact with the diplomatic community and for embassy chefs to showcase their culinary talents to the public.

The moment the doors opened, guests were eager to embark on a world tasting tour, stamping their passports at each participating embassy’s station. Embassy chefs brought their A-game for a chance to win one of the coveted Pineapple Trophies in three separate categories: Judges' Choice, People’s Choice and Best Beverage. This year, the embassies pulled out all the stops preparing delicious bites and beverages including Spicy Sizzled Grilled Lamb Rack with Jollof Rice from Ghana; the original Pain Killer rum cocktail prepared by the British Virgin Islands; Elarji with cornmeal and cheese croquettes, walnut sauce, and an authentic spice glaze from Georgia; traditional Sri Lankan Milk Rice with onion paste and chicken curry and a “Surf and Turf” Pumpkin Soup prepared by Haiti.

Travel-inspired décor elevated this year’s event with passport stamp gobos illuminating the Atrium ceiling and clustered furniture seating representing different countries scattered throughout the event spaces: Japanese-inspired low tables and screens; vibrant poufs from India and colorfully patterned tablecloths from Bolivia were some of the communal seating options.

In the Atrium, guests mingled with one another while listening to live music from Aaron Myers & Co., Quiet Storm Trio, Nathan Pryce and Dreams from Ghana. Guests had the opportunity to challenge their geography and world history knowledge by playing a Jeopardy-esque Global Guessing Game with members of Team TCMA while enjoying Caribbean Meat Pies, Fried Vegetable Spring Rolls and Chimichurri Marinated Fish Tacos prepared by TCMA’s culinary team.

After taste testing all of the spices, sweets and authentic flavors, the panel of food critics and guests casted their votes for what they believe was the best dish and overall favorite experience (each guest was given one token to cast their vote).