Malta Chefs Society

The Malta Chefs Society is the result of the unification of two chefs associations which understood the benefit of unity for the sake of the local chefs’ community.

The MCS has for the past 16 years grown from strength to strength in its membership and activities. Although some of the activities are not visible, the MCS is involved as key stakeholder in projects which help the industry to reach higher standards and also achieve international recognition.

The MCS is also involved in the structuring of the culinary education with a permanent seat on the Scientific Committee at the Institute of Tourism Studies. It has also developed the accredited Master Chefs Diploma programme which is offered locally to further improve the skills of established chefs. The involvement of the MCS in the MTA Quality Assured scheme allows for input into further development of the local culinary standard which has achieved great strides over the last decade or so. The MCS is also involved in the Majjistral Action Group Foundation which promotes Maltese culinary traditions, both locally and internationally.

Through the affiliation with the World Association of Chefs Societies (WACS) now known as World Chefs, the MCS represents Malta at international conferences and helps shape innovative ideas such as Food Waste Reduction and higher kitchen hygiene standards. This was the brainchild of Dr Paulino Schembri who was charged with the task of writing the international hygiene rules for culinary competitions. The MCS was also represented on the WACS Education Committee for many years where educational programmes for international delivery were developed.

The MCS holds the Malta Kulinarja, a culinary competition organised every 2 years. At the Malta Kulinarja, the local chefs showcase their talent and new innovations over 4 days in some 65 different themed competitions held for individuals or teams. The 2022 edition was postposed to 2023 due the current Covid-19 situation, which has heavily impacted the hospitality industry. Looking ahead to regroup and revitalise the local chefs’ community, the motors have been put in motion for the 2023 edition. The next edition will bring back the comradery and the competitive nature of the chefs which is synonymous with the kitchen life. Much awaited by the chefs, the Malta Kulinarja will be the spring board to bring back this family together.

The MCS has been instrumental in the internationalization of the local chefs and their exposure to networks with other chefs’ associations and opportunities to showcase their talent at international events. The Maltese have been praised by the organisers for being professional and superior in their culinary skills in producing dishes representative of the Mediterranean region.

The MCS is keen to further develop the local chefs’ talent by using its international network with international chefs association and showcase the Maltese culinary heritage at events which promote not only the skills of the chefs but also the traditions and the local produce which in itself can be related to the Mediterranean terroir which is distinct and special. The MCS has at its heart the further improvement of the local chefs in achieving higher standards which is evident in our restaurants. The standards offered today to our customers are world class - placing the local chefs as professionals in their own right.




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