The winners of the 2026 Nestlé Professional Toque d’Or have returned from an inspiring prize trip across Denmark, Sweden and Norway, where they explored the people, places and experiences shaping Scandinavian hospitality.
From barista training and knife craftsmanship to meeting the Danish Bocuse d’Or team and visiting some of the region’s standout Michelin-star restaurants, the one-week trip offered the Scottish duo a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to develop their skills, broaden their perspectives and gain inspiration for their future careers.
Comments from the winners
Nathan Derek Short, 2026 Back of House Winner, City of Glasgow College, said:
“Toque d’Or has taught me that hard work, resilience and a positive attitude can take you much further than you could ever imagine. You’re bound to have moments where you don’t feel at your best, but you learn to keep going, adapt and never give up.
“The trip showed me just how diverse the hospitality industry is and how many opportunities it offers. Meeting the Danish Bocuse d’Or team and going behind the scenes in some incredible kitchens was hugely inspiring. The organisation, attention to detail and respect they have for their craft are qualities I’ll take back into my own career. I also believe experiences like this help show the next generation what modern hospitality is really about – passionate, supportive professionals working together to achieve exceptional standards. The more we can showcase that side of hospitality, the more young people we’ll inspire to see it as an exciting and rewarding career.”
Declan Sloan, 2026 Front of House Winner, Ayrshire College, said:
“My Toque d’Or experience has completely changed the way I think about hospitality and the career opportunities available. Not only through my time competing, but also during our trip across Scandinavia, where I saw just how many different career paths exist within the industry.
“It also highlighted how important it is for the industry to continue creating opportunities for young people to step outside their comfort zones, ask questions and immerse themselves in new experiences, because that’s where confidence and inspiration can grow. I’ve come home with a much broader perspective, greater confidence in my own abilities and a real excitement for where a career in hospitality could take me.”
