On Sunday, November 17, 2025, Baptiste Tieberghien from Wielsbeke won the “First Cook of Belgium 2026” title. The 33-year-old chef-owner of restaurant Lin’eau triumphed at “Horeca Expo” in Brussels. Club Prosper Montagné organized this prestigious 73rd edition championship. Remarkably, this marked his first attempt at the coveted title.
Final Round of the Competion “First Cook of Belgium 2026?
Five talented chefs battled for the First Cook crown. Baptiste faced strong competition from across Belgium. Aurelien De Noble, 25, represented the star restaurant “Attablez Vous” in Namur.
Meanwhile, Benny Dechamps brought 40 years of expertise. He works as patissier at “Hostellerie Saint Nicolas” in Elverdinge. Dimitri Proost, 31, came from star restaurant Haut in Ostend.
Finally, Cedric Sorton completed the lineup. The 45-year-old chef runs restaurant Oh in St-Idesbald. Each contestant brought unique skills to the competition organized by Club Prosper Montagné.
What Dishes Did the Chefs Prepare?
The competition featured three challenging courses. First, contestants created a vegetarian dish using Belgian ingredients. Specifically, they worked with Belgian endive, salsify, and legumes.
Next came a seafood course. The chefs prepared cod with shellfish and mushrooms. Additionally, they served a refined consommé alongside the main protein.
For dessert, they tackled a classic. The challenge required a modern interpretation of Forêt Noire. This tested both technical skills and creative innovation.
How Did Baptiste Win the Title of First Cook of Belgium 2026?
Baptiste credits two dishes for his victory. “I scored high with the cod“, he explained after winning. Moreover, the dessert impressed the judges significantly.
However, flavor proved most important. “Above all, the taste aspect won them over“, Baptiste noted proudly. His culinary approach combined precise technique with bold flavors.
Furthermore, his previous experience helped tremendously. In 2023, he won “Fish Cook of the Year”. This background gave him confidence during the intense November competition.
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What Does the First Cook of Belgium 2026 Say?
Baptiste Tieberghien, Chef-Owner, Lin’eau Wielsbeke
“I wanted to showcase clean flavors throughout. The judges appreciated my modern approach completely. Every element on each plate had purpose. My training at ‘Hotelschool Ter Duinen’ prepared me well.”
“This First Cook title means everything to me. I plan to grow step by step. My team at restaurant Lin’eau supported me throughout. Together, we will continue pushing culinary boundaries.”
Who Else Earned Recognition?
Thibault Lenaerts won the best commis award. He assisted Aurélien De Noble during the November competition. This recognition highlights the importance of strong teamwork.
Additionally, leadership changes are coming to Belgium. Eddie Van Maele led finals for over 30 years. Now, Peter Goossens takes over as provoost-generaal.
Next year brings more exciting changes. Glenn Verhasselt from Sir Kwinten will lead the technical jury. He becomes the new provoost of chefs in 2026.
What About the Junior Competition?
Willemijn Veldeman, 19, became First Junior Cook of Belgium 2026. She competed in the Disciples d’Auguste Escoffier competition. Her commis Laura Van der Steen provided crucial support throughout.
Coach Evelien Fiers-Snoeck guided the team expertly. Together, they delivered exceptional performance at Horeca Expo. The jury praised their technical excellence and tight organization.
Willemijn works at Fleur de Lin in Zele. Despite her young age, she shows remarkable maturity. Previously, she trained at Restaurant Boury and Hofke van Bazel.
Lode De Roover, her chef, expressed tremendous pride. “She combines talent with tremendous dedication,” he stated enthusiastically. Indeed, this victory showcases her very promising future.
Conclusion: A New Era for Belgian Cuisine
Baptiste Tieberghien’s First Cook victory inspires Belgium’s entire culinary scene. His November 2025 success demonstrates that dedication pays off. Moreover, young talents like Willemijn prove the future looks bright.
These competitions elevate Belgian gastronomy on the international stage. Therefore, aspiring chefs should watch these winners closely. The First Cook title represents the highest achievement in Belgian cooking.
Consequently, we can expect great things from Baptiste moving forward. Their creativity will shape Belgium’s culinary landscape for years ahead.
