Toque d’Or® 2026 Winners Return Inspired Following Scandinavian Prize Trip
Our 2026 champions Nathan Derek Short and Declan Sloan have returned from an unforgettable prize trip across Denmark, Sweden and Norway, where they explored the people, places and experiences shaping Scandinavian hospitality.
From barista training and knife craftsmanship to meeting the Danish Bocuse d’Or team and visiting some of the region’s standout Michelin-star restaurants, the one-week trip offered the Scottish duo a once-in-a-life-time opportunity to develop their skills, broaden their perspectives and gain inspiration for their future careers.
Discovering Scandinavian Hospitality
The trip began with barista training at Zoégas in Helsingborg, Sweden, followed by a visit to Malmö and a unique sensory experience at the Disgusting Food Museum before enjoying an authentic meal at Bullen.
In Copenhagen, the winners took part in a Suba Knives experience and met the Danish Bocuse d’Or team. Further highlights included exploring the streets of Copenhagen, taking part in a canal tour, and enjoying an immersive culinary experience at French-Nordic fusion Michelin-star restaurant, The Samuel.
Nathan and Declan then travelled to Dragsholm Slot, a luxury castle hotel in Denmark, where they enjoyed lunch at The Stable before visiting Søren Wiuff. There, they explored the wide variety of vegetables, fruits and herbs grown for the fine-dining industry, including edible hemp, which later featured in on of their dishes. The visit was followed by a kitchen tour, storytelling session and herb walk with chefs Rasmus and Gustav, before an exquisite fine-dining experience at Michelin-starred restaurant Dragsholm Slot Gourmet.
The final stage of the trip took them to Stavanger, Norway. On Friday, they joined a guided city walk and enjoyed dinner at Grill & Berkel. Saturday brought a thrilling private boat safari through the Fjords, taking in the spectacular landscapes, followed by lunch at the Fish Market. The pair returned to Glasgow on Sunday, bringing an unforgettable Scandinavian adventure to a close.
Inspired for the Future
Reflecting on the experience, Nathan said:
“Toque d'Or has taught me that hard work, resilience and a positive attitude can take you much further than you could ever imagine. You're bound to have moments where you don't feel at your best, but you learn to keep going, adapt and never give up.
“The trip showed me just how diverse the hospitality industry is and how many opportunities it offers. Meeting the Danish Bocuse d'Or team and going behind the scenes in some incredible kitchens was hugely inspiring. The organisation, attention to detail and respect they have for their craft are qualities I'll take back into my own career. I also believe experiences like this help show the next generation what modern hospitality is really about – passionate, supportive professionals working together to achieve exceptional standards. The more we can showcase that side of hospitality, the more young people we'll inspire to see it as an exciting and rewarding career."
Declan added:
“My Toque d’Or experience has completely changed the way I think about hospitality and the career opportunities available. Not only through my time competing, but also during our trip across Scandinavia, where I saw just how many different career paths exist within the industry.
“It also highlighted how important it is for the industry to continue creating opportunities for young people to step outside their comfort zones, ask questions and immerse themselves in new experiences, because that’s where confidence and inspiration can grow. I’ve come home with a much broader perspective, greater confidence in my own abilities and a real excitement for where a career in hospitality could take me.”
Lorenzo Viganò, Managing Director of Nestlé Professional UK&I:
“Nestlé Professional Toque d’Or is about helping emerging hospitality talent build confidence, broaden their horizons and understand the diverse career opportunities available within our industry.
“This year’s winners’ trip gave Nathan and Declan access to exceptional food, drink and hospitality experiences across three countries, from specialist skills training and craftsmanship to Michelin-starred dining and Scandinavian approaches to service.
“They have shown enormous talent and professionalism throughout the competition, and it’s exciting to know their Toque d’Or experience has inspired them to continue learning, challenging themselves and making their mark on the industry.”
Stay Tuned for Future Competition Updates
The Nestlé Professional Toque d’Or competition continues to support the next generation of hospitality talent by giving students the chance to challenge themselves, develop new skills and connect with some of the industry’s leading professionals. To find out more about the 2027 competition and receive the latest updates, click here.
