Dolce

Belgium stood by, watched and finished 14th in the competition. In a country, which is (for now) still regarded as a gastronomic Mecca, government support for Bocuse d'Or was completely omitted. This is incomprehensible, when you know that the standard for international top gastronomy is determined at this event. When you know that the praise for the winner also reflects on his or her country and its culinary products. And when you realize that the Scandinavian chefs would not be where they are today without the support of their governments.

Should we not just present better dishes then? No, anyone who witnessed the preparation of Peter Aesart, led by coach Patrick Spiessens and under patronage of Peter Goossens, cannot fail to congratulate this amazing team with its creations. But nowadays, there is much more at stake than just cooking: lobbying, communication, national pride and support. These are all factors which (in)directly come into play in the evaluation of the participants. That's why it is so distressing to note that our government does not invest a single cent into the flag-bearers of our gastronomy.

Therefore, this appeal to the future government. Don’t leave your chefs in the cold. If we want to continue to play a role at the top of international gastronomy, then your support for events like Bocuse d’Or is indispensable.  And rest assured, your support is not unconditional. Nobody needs to be convinced of the importance of local flavour, gastronomy, hospitality, table culture ... for the image of a country and the sectors which benefit from it.

The signatories,

Ilse Duponcheel (Dolce)
Ferdy Debecker (restaurant Eyckerhof)