A ‘culinary adventure like no other’: Nestlé Professional 2024 Toque d'Or® duo return from Switzerland
Just weeks after being the conclusion of the prestigious Toque d'Or® competition, back-of-house winner Geraldine Sierra Torres and front-of-house runner up Emma Bancroft embarked on an unforgettable culinary journey to Switzerland. This exclusive trip allowed them to experience the country's finest culinary establishments, explore Nestlé's rich heritage and delve into Swiss culture.
Swiss culinary highlights
Geraldine and Emma’s adventure included a diverse itinerary designed to broaden their culinary horizons. They began with specialised beverage training at the Nestlé Beverage Centre in Orbe, led by master barista Christos Sotiros. Following this, they explored the iconic Sauvabellin Tower and the Olympic Museum & Park in Lausanne.
At Nestlé’s headquarters in Vevey, the duo received hands-on culinary and sustainability training from global executive chef Emmanuel Lorieux, enhancing their practical skills and understanding of sustainable practices. Their journey continued with a private guided tour of Chateau Chillon and indulgent fondue tastings at Maison Gruyere, immersing them in Switzerland's rich culinary traditions.
Cultural and culinary exploration
As well as participating in dedicated training, Geraldine and Emma were treated to memorable experiences throughout the trip, from a special tour of the Mosimann Collection at Cesar Ritz College – with Swiss chef and restaurateur Anton Mosimann – to an indulgent day of fondue and wine tasting at La Maison du Gruyère. Afterward, they embarked on a tour of Maison Cailler, a Nestlé-owned chocolate factory, to immerse themselves in the world of chocolate.
A visit to the EHL Hospitality Business School included a fine-dining experience at Berceau de Sense and a scenic boat cruise on Lake Geneva, showcasing Switzerland's natural beauty. The trip concluded with an exhilarating night at the world-renowned Montreux Jazz Festival, blending cultural immersion with culinary excellence.
Geraldine and Emma have joined other former winners and finalists in the Toque d’Or Ambassador Programme. This exclusive programme provides ongoing mentorship, networking opportunities, and the chance to play a lead role in other Nestlé Professional initiatives, such as the Choose Hospitality Pledge.
The Choose Hospitality Pledge aims to educate secondary students about the industry’s wide range of entry-level roles and training opportunities, the breadth of roles available, as well as the many career pathways on offer.
