As the festive season approaches, food lovers and enthusiasts have a date to savour. The 28th edition of Monte-Carlo Gastronomie is set to take over the Chapiteau de Fontvieille, from November 28th to December 1st, bringing more than 100 producers from across Europe under one roof. 

This annual festival has now become something of a tradition in the Principality, transforming 2,500 square metres of space into a treasure map of fine foods, artisan products and elegant tableware. This year promises to bring once more authentic regional specialities from France, Italy and beyond.

The Maestro Chef competition to make a come back

But not everything is about browsing and buying. The festival’s star attraction is the sixth edition of the Maestro Chef competition, where eight passionate amateur cooks will battle it out for a €2,000 prize and the right to brag about it ’til the next edition.  What makes the competition particularly interesting is that contestants won’t know what they’re cooking until the day itself, with themes revealed only when the competition commences.

The competitors will face scrutiny from some of Monaco’s most distinguished culinary figures. Judges will be looking for creativity, presentation, taste and – most importantly – how well candidates avoid food waste.

Practical information

The festival opens its doors 10am to 9pm on Friday and Saturday, 10am to 8pm on Sunday, and 10am to 6pm on Monday. Entry costs just €5, with children under 12 getting in free. Several public car parks are available nearby for €5, covering three hours of parking, while buses also arrive to the venue from the Monaco train station and Larvotto.

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Main photo credit: Photo Caroli Com