Spain may be the homeland of tapas, but when it comes to creating award winning tapas Down Under, some Antipodean flair with a Kiwi twist can make all the difference.
With the 7th annual Skills Ignite Australasia Tapas Competition just weeks away, Hospitality Business caught up with some of the judges – and the world’s finest chefs – to find out what it’s going to take to steal the show.
Certified Master Chef Mark Erickson
Not only is Chef Erickson Provost at the world-renowned Culinary Institute of America (CIA), but he’ll also be Head Judge at the 2025 Australasia Tapas Competition, which takes place at Skills Ignite Cookery School in Auckland on July 29. Here’s what he says makes a tapa truly shine:
“A great tapa is all about bold flavours, high-quality ingredients, and a shared experience. Tapas are meant for gathering, offering small, flavourful bites that complement drinks and conversation.
- Simplicity with Depth – The best tapas embrace a few ingredients yet deliver maximum flavour. A well-crafted tapa is proof that less can be more.
- Contrast Creates Harmony – A balance of crispy, creamy, and chewy textures keeps each bite exciting and satisfying.
- A Celebration of Quality Ingredients – Let the ingredients take center stage. A skilled chef knows how to highlight their natural essence rather than overpower them.
- A Cultural Expression – Tapas are more than just food; they’re a culinary canvas. Each bite tells a story of tradition, history, philosophy, or even a conversation waiting to unfold.
- The Perfect Pairing – Tapas shine brightest when accompanied by the right drink. Whether it’s wine, sherry, vermouth, or a cold beer, the harmony between food and beverage turns every bite and sip into a social celebration.
Zennon Christian, Sous Chef, Paris Butter
“Tapas celebrate creativity, culture, and craftsmanship. They are about more than just small bites—they’re a chance to tell a story in just a few mouthfuls.
- Bold, Balanced Flavour – Every element needs to sing with layered seasoning, acidity, and texture all in perfect harmony.
- One-Bite Impact – Great tapas should be explosive in flavour and perfectly composed in a single bite.
- Technique Meets Simplicity – Clever technique is important, but it should never overshadow the ingredient, it should elevate it.
- Cultural Soul – A great tapas dish respects its roots while bringing something new, whether that’s a twist on tradition or a reflection of local produce.
- Presentation with Purpose – It should look beautiful but never fussy: clean, thoughtful plating that invites you in without trying too hard.
Angel Moretón, Director of World Tapas Competition, CEO of E-Spain
Valladolid is said to be the tapas capital of the world so as a Valladolid local, this talented Spaniard knows his tapas! Angel is the mastermind behind the World Tapas Competition, which runs heats from the UK and USA, to New Zealand, India and Mexico, and culminates in the global champs in Valladolid every November.
“A winning tapa tells a compelling story or personal/cultural connection, and features creative, eye-catching presentation that surprises the judges. Technical excellence is key — precise cooking and balanced flavours really do matter! Local or seasonal ingredients adds authenticity and depth and you need the right balance of textures and contrasts. Overall, the tapa must be cohesive, memorable, and complete in one bite.
- Clear Concept – The tapa should tell a story or reflect a personal, regional, or cultural idea that gives it emotional depth.
- Flawless Execution – Precise technique, excellent cooking, and attention to detail in every component.
- Creative and Memorable Presentation – Visually appealing, inviting curiosity and excitement at first glance.
- Ingredient Respect and Seasonality – Showcasing local or seasonal products thoughtfully and with care.
- Outstanding, Balanced Flavour – This is the most important factor! The tapa must taste exceptional, with harmonious, layered, and memorable flavours that linger.
Executive Chef Brent Martin, Park Hyatt Auckland & Park Hyatt Canberra
“Winning tapas dishes are characterised by their bold flavors, creative presentation, and a harmonious balance of textures and ingredients. They stand out because they combine traditional techniques with innovative twists, appealing to both the palate and the eye. Key elements include:
- Flavour Complexity – Incorporating a mix of savoury, spicy, sweet, and tangy notes to create memorable taste experiences.
- Fresh, Quality Ingredients – Using high-quality, fresh ingredients to ensure vibrant flavours and appealing appearance.
- Presentation – Visually attractive plating that makes the dish inviting and stimulates the appetite.
- Creativity and Originality – Introducing unique combinations or modern takes on classic tapas to surprise and delight diners.
- Portion Size – Perfectly sized for sharing, encouraging social eating and allowing multiple dishes to be enjoyed together.
- Balance – Combining flavours and textures, such as crispy, tender, creamy, and crunchy, to enhance overall enjoyment.
- Cultural Authenticity – Respecting traditional techniques and flavours while adding a personal or innovative touch.
“Ultimately, winning tapas dishes leave a lasting impression through their taste, appearance, and the overall dining experience they create.”
Sid Sahrawat, award-winning chef and restaurateur
“Tapas have become a very important part of the global culinary landscape and they offer a great platform for culinary students and chefs to showcase their talents. The key to a great tapa is:
- Interesting Flavour Combinations
- Textural Balance
- Technically Crafted
- Refined and Elegant
Chef Jasbir Kaur, Competition organiser and Skills Ignite Head of Global Education Partnership and Business Development.
Not only did Chef Kaur launch the Australasia Tapas Competition in New Zealand seven years ago, but she has been the driving force behind it ever since. She is a regular judge at the Americas and Asian Tapas Competitions, and she has been both a competitor and judge at the World Tapas. She has also worked at the legendary Disfrutar, so Spanish cuisine is a firm favourite.
“A winning tapa is more than just a small bite. It’s a complete story on a plate. It should first catch the eye – beautifully presented, balanced in colour, and inviting. But it’s not just about looks. The taste must be bold yet harmonious, with layers of flavour that surprise and delight in just one or two bites. It should reflect creativity, show excellent technique, and make smart use of ingredients, whether traditional or innovative.”
- Sense of Place – Perhaps a nod to Spanish roots or a clever fusion of local flavours.
- Texture Matters – A contrast between crispy, soft, creamy, or crunchy makes it exciting.
- Leave a Lasting Impression – Make the judge pause, smile, and want just one more bite. That’s the magic: when something so small carries such a big impact.
Simon Gault, Celebrity Chef
The Australasia Tapas Competition is a calendar highlight for renown Kiwi chef Simon Gault. Now in his sixth year of judging the event, he is the competition’s Chief Judge for New Zealand, and he reckons every year the dishes keep getting better. Here’s what he’s hoping to see at the 2025 cook-off:
“This year I’m looking for a tapa that truly punches above its weight; elegant presentation, precise technique, and bold, memorable flavour, all delivered in one perfectly balanced bite. If there’s a touch of Kiwi creativity that makes me pause and think, “Now that’s a bit of brilliance,” then you’ve absolutely nailed it.”
From left: Chef Todd Thorburn from UNOX; Karl Seidel, Commercial Advisory Chef at Nestlé Professional, Chef Simon Gault; Chef Peter Gordon; Hyatt Executive Chef Brent Martin, Restaurateur & Chef Sid Sahrawat with Angel Moreton, the Director of the World Tapas Competition.
For more details regarding the competition go to: www.hospitalitybusiness.co.nz/sizzle-style-spain-tapas-champs-wanted-for-global-culinary-competition/
