Zimbabwe debuts at the Embassy Chef Challenge: 10 July 2025

The Embassy of Zimbabwe made its debut appearance at the Embassy Chef Challenge, held on 10 July 2025, at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium, joining around 30 other Embassies in this renowned culinary competition. Hosted by Events DC, a leading organizer of various events in the nation’s capital, the annual Embassy Chef Challenge is a prestigious event that highlights international culinary talents.

This year marked the 14th edition of the challenge, emphasizing culinary diplomacy and showcasing the diverse flavors of different countries. The event attracted a large audience of food enthusiasts, providing a unique global culinary experience exclusive to Washington, DC. To represent Zimbabwe effectively, the Embassy collaborated with Essie Gourmet, a prominent local Zimbabwean chef based in Washington, DC.

Our menu featured traditional dishes such as blackjack, creamed pumpkin leaves, and beef oxtail stew with maize crispy dumplings, among others. These dishes offered attendees a taste of Zimbabwe’s cuisine and culture.  Through active engagement with visitors, the Embassy aimed to position Zimbabwe as a must visit destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences, aligning with the country’s vision. The event was live-streamed and garnered extensive media coverage from various publications in DC, elevating Zimbabwe’s culinary presence on the global stage.