Big stages, electric atmospheres, and unforgettable food experiences, that’s where we thrive! 

Recently held at Melbourne Zoo, the HotPlate 2026 National Finale took culinary competition to a whole new level. Partnering with Zoos Victoria, our team helped turn the event into an interactive live street food market. No barriers, no velvet ropes. Just guests, clients and Chefs engaging directly, with a clear look behind the curtain at what it takes to deliver culinary excellence under pressure.  

Representing Levy was Tuan Tran, who brought down the house with Pho’caccia: Vietnamese & Italian Fusion. Blending slow-simmered Vietnamese aromatics with Italian focaccia technique, Tuan’s concept was audacious, fun and executed with absolute precision.  

We bumped into Tuan in the kitchen right after the awards, “I felt accomplished, like Faith running a busy kitchen and having to produce is intense. So, showing young Chefs that regardless of what is going on, we as senior Chefs can inspire and show our young Chefs that with a lot of hard work and determination, we can always strive for greatness.” 

The crowd and judges agreed: Tuan took out 2nd Place overall AND claimed the Popular Vote Winner crown! An incredible achievement, Tuan!  

Huge congratulations as well to Faith Gaspar (ESS) for an inspiring 1st Place win, and Maria Cirera (Chartwells) for securing 3rd Place.  

Hot Plate showed once again that our teams don’t just cater events, we curate hospitality moments you never forget.  

To our culinary talent across venues and cultural hubs: get your recipe ideas cooking. Hot Plate 2027 will be looking for the next game-changing concept. Will it come from your venue?