Indonesian chef Ardy Ferguson has been crowned the winner of the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition 2024–2025, held at the historic Castello Sforzesco in Milan. His signature dish, Archipelago Celebration, impressed an international jury with its creativity, precision, and deep cultural storytelling, earning him the top honor in the competition’s sixth global edition.
The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy, an international platform dedicated to nurturing the next generation of culinary leaders, held its two-day Grand Finale with 15 regional champions competing from around the world. Ferguson emerged victorious after two years of rigorous regional and international rounds, which saw participation from 55 countries across 15 regions.
His winning dish, Archipelago Celebration, represents a culinary homage to Indonesia’s diverse flavors, blending innovation with authenticity. Throughout the competition, Ferguson was mentored by Chef Vicky Lau of TATE Dining Room, Hong Kong’s Michelin-starred restaurant, who guided him in refining his techniques and expression.
A distinguished Grand Jury of seven Michelin-starred chefs — Christophe Bacquié, Jeremy Chan, Antonia Klugmann, Niki Nakayama, Elena Reygadas, Julien Royer, and Mitsuharu Tsumura — praised Ferguson’s technical mastery, balanced creativity, and ability to translate personal heritage into a modern gastronomic language.
“I’m incredibly honored to have been named the winner,” said Ferguson. “Representing Asia on this global stage has been an unforgettable experience. Archipelago Celebration allowed me to share Indonesia’s culinary traditions and explore new ways to express my roots. This journey has been one of learning, growth, and gratitude.”
The gala dinner that followed featured an exclusive menu created by celebrated chefs Pía León of Kjolle (No. 9 on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025) and Jessica Rosval of Casa Maria Luigia and Al Gatto Verde. Also in attendance was Nelson Freitas, winner of the previous edition, who now works alongside León — a testament to the Academy’s mentorship opportunities and career impact.
The ceremony also honored winners of the competition’s collateral awards:
Chef Zanté Neethling (Africa, Middle East & South Asia) received the S.Pellegrino Social Responsibility Award for her sustainably inspired dish Tribute to the Khoi-Khoin Tara.
Chef Noah Wynants (North Europe) won the Acqua Panna Connection in Gastronomy Award for his plant-based Dutch Rendang, merging tradition with innovation.
Chef Nicolás A. López (USA) earned the Fine Dining Lovers Food for Thought Award — the only award voted by the public — for his dish Pork with Hints of the Sea, which reflected his personal beliefs and culinary philosophy.
Since its founding, the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy has become a cornerstone in global gastronomy, offering young chefs mentorship and networking opportunities with leading culinary figures. With his win, Ardy Ferguson joins the ranks of previous champions as a new ambassador for creativity, sustainability, and cultural expression in the world of fine dining.
