Banten, August 2024 — The Archipelago Black Box Battle aimed to spotlight the diverse culinary talents and beverage expertise within Archipelago International. This year’s event was held at the Aston Kartika Grogol Hotel, bringing together a talented roster of 13 Executive Chefs and 13 Food & Beverage Leaders from hotels within the Jakarta metropolitan area and its surroundings, including Aston Anyer Beach Hotel, Aston Cilegon Boutique Hotel and Aston Serang Hotel & Convention Center on 25 July 2024.

The competition required participants to create innovative dishes and beverages using a selection of secret ingredients presented in black boxes. This year’s mystery ingredients included swordfish, salmon, king prawns, agave syrup, oranges, and tamarind.

Purpose of the Event:

• Showcase Culinary and Beverage Diversity: Highlighting the rich array of ingredients and culinary techniques employed by Archipelago’s food and beverage professionals.
• Introduce Creative Talents: Providing a platform for emerging talents within the Archipelago International network, particularly in the JABODETABEK area.
• Foster Camaraderie: Building a collaborative spirit among Archipelago’s F&B professionals to elevate the quality of food and beverage offerings.

The competition was marked by keen rivalry for prestigious awards, including:

Executive Chef Category:

• First Place: Chef Iwan Irawan of Aston Serang Hotel & Convention Center
• Second Place: Chef Sukma Nuryadinata of Grand Aston Puncak Hotel & Resort
• Third Place: Chef Eko Priyo Utomo of Aston Kartika Grogol Hotel & Conference Center

Food & Beverage Leader Category:

• First Place: Firman Maulana of Harper MT Haryono, Cawang
• Second Place: Muhammad Sani of Aston Cilegon Boutique Hotel
• Third Place: Fathi Helmi of favehotel Padjajaran Bogor

Photo: Executive Chef Iwan Irawan (right)  with Mr. Winston Hanes, Vice President Operation (Left)

The winners in both categories received certificates, cash prizes, gifts from Aston Kartika Grogol Hotel & Conference Center, and additional prizes from event sponsors.

The Archipelago Black Box Battle not only served as a platform to enhance culinary skills but also as an opportunity for participants to engage in friendly competition and showcase their inventive prowess in the culinary arts.

Chef Iwan Irawan, Winner of the Executive Chef Category, explained, “I was truly honored to receive this recognition. The Black Box Battle was an incredible experience that pushed me to explore new culinary horizons. I am grateful to Archipelago International for providing this platform to showcase our skills and for the support of my fellow chefs. This victory is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire team.”

Muhammad Sani, Second Place Winner in the Food & Beverage Leader Category, expressed, “Being part of the Black Box Battle was a fantastic experience. The competition allowed us to highlight our skills and creativity in a dynamic setting. Congratulations to all the winners and participants for their exceptional efforts.”

Doddy Fathurahman, Regional General Manager, stated, “The Black Box Battle highlighted the exceptional talent within our network. I was proud of the creativity and skill shown by all participants. Such competitions strengthen our team and elevate our culinary standards. Thanks to all who contributed. Congratulations to everyone for their impressive performances.”