On January 21, Kyiv announced the results of the national selection for the World Chocolate Masters (WCM), the world's premier chocolate craftsmanship competition. Anton Shtypa will continue the battle for the title of the world’s best chocolatier, representing all of Ukraine. The talented pastry chef impressed the jury with his unconventional flavor pairings and unique gastronomic philosophy. Following this brilliant victory at the national stage, he is now preparing to conquer the global arena at the WCM International Final in France in the autumn of 2022.

World Chocolate Masters is a global pastry competition dedicated to pushing the boundaries of chocolate artistry. This year’s edition features contestants from 21 countries and is supported by Cacao Barry, the professional chocolate brand by Barry Callebaut.

#TMRW: What Does the Future Hold for Pastry Arts? Ukraine participated in the competition for the first time in its history. The selection round took place at the Chef University culinary studio, hosted by Best Way Foods—the distributor for Barry Callebaut and other premium ingredient manufacturers for the Food Service and food processing industries in Ukraine. The theme, #TMRW (Tomorrow), explored the global role of chocolate in the future of gastronomy.

The atmosphere was one of mutual support, as three talented Ukrainian chocolatiers competed for the top spot:

• Anton Shtypa – Pastry Chef at Bassano, instructor at the First Culinary Academy of Ukraine, and winner of the national selection in three categories: #DESIGN, #TASTE, and #SNACK. His creations impressed both the jury and the audience with their flavor, design, and conceptual depth.

• Oleg Ivzhenko – Former Executive Chef at the Fairmont Grand Hotel. He secured second place and won the #BONBON category. His winning idea enhanced the classic duo of apple and cinnamon with a fresh note of blueberry.

• Semen Postolov – Pastry Chef at Vanil Café, who took third place and won the conceptual #YOU category. His science-inspired work highlighted the vital importance of environmental preservation.

Anton Shtypa to Represent Ukraine at the Paris Final Reflecting on his victory, Anton Shtypa noted that this is one of his greatest professional achievements. "I am proud to represent Ukraine. The biggest challenge was maintaining precise control over all processes, timing, and techniques I had practiced. I delved deep into the philosophy of the tasks to best convey every idea through flavor and design. I want to create wholesome desserts and see no need for excessive chemical ingredients," said Anton.

The biodiversity of ecosystems became the central theme of his work. He triumphed in three key categories:

• #DESIGN – A chocolate sculpture incorporating at least six advanced techniques, centered on the letters #TMRW. Anton also received the Audience Choice Award for this stage. His work addressed the ecological crisis in the oceans, featuring a stunning chocolate trophy adorned with a white lotus—a symbol of creative beginnings.

• #TASTE – A pastry consisting of three textures, featuring Cacao Barry chocolate, fruit, and a local ingredient. Inspired by the resilience of the linden tree, Anton paired pear with linden jelly and chocolate.

• #SNACK – A snack made from 100% natural ingredients. In addition to poppy seeds, hazelnuts, and chocolate, Anton used apricots—the scent of his childhood. Since apricot trees are found in almost every yard in Ukraine, the flavor perfectly illustrated the soul of local street food.

The Prestigious Jury Included:

• Evgenia Petrenko (Head of Jury) – Pastry Chef, Chocolatier, and Cacao Barry Ambassador.

• Dmytro Kolesnykov – Pastry Chef at Bakehouse Confectionery.

• Andriy Dubovyk – Renowned chocolatier and international consultant.

• Dinara Kasko – Architectural pastry chef and mold designer.

• Special Guest: Philippe Marand – Head of Barry Callebaut Chocolate Academies in EEMEA.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for every participant to elevate their career and take their gastronomic ideas to new heights. What our chocolatiers create today sets the trends for the entire industry," stated Evgenia Petrenko.

WCM Ukraine Sponsors:

• Kenwood – Global leader in kitchen machines.

• Forward – Exclusive distributor of Silikomart and Forest professional pastry equipment.

• METRO – The professional's choice with a specialized HoReCa assortment.

The full broadcast is available on the official WCM Ukraine YouTube channel.