Congratulations Michel Nungisa, winner of the 2026 Culinary Clash!
Some winning dishes begin with ingredients. Michel’s began with family.
After taking home the Golden Apron at Culinary Clash at Taste for Hope 2026, Michel Nungisa brought his winning dish to our Community Kitchen. He prepared chicken, lentils and carrots with flavours inspired by his mother-in-law, wife and mother.
More than a winning dish, Michel shared a meal rooted in family, culture and community.
Four business leaders. One kitchen. The pressure is on.
Back for its second year at Taste for Hope, the Culinary Clash is turning up the heat.
Armed with a set list of ingredients, pantry staples, and a strict $25 budget, competitors must transform simple ingredients into a dish worthy of the judges. Creativity, strategy, and serious kitchen instincts will all come into play.
The competition comes to a head live at Taste for Hope on June 3rd, where the final dishes are plated and the judges weigh in.
Who will rise to claim the title of Culinary Clash Champion?
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Julie Findlay
Mentor: Joanne Kudakiewicz
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Louis Lacombe-Denis
Mentor: Duane Francis
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Michel Nungisa
Mentor: Yasser Ghazi
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Kathryn Tremblay
Mentor: Jennifer Stewart
Culinary Clash Judges
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Soula Burrell
Greater Ottawa Home Builders' Association
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Jenny Chen
Catalais Consulting Ltd.
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Philippe Laplante
Ideal Roofing
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Chef Joe Thuttungal
Coconut Lagoon/Thali