The Restaurants Canada Pizza Competition is back for its second straight year at this spring’s RC Show Conference & Trade Expo, taking place April 8-10 in Toronto, Ontario.
The event shines a spotlight on the nation’s best and brightest talent in the food and beverage industry. This year’s theme, “LEVEL UP,” aims to support the industry, discover new ways to push the boundaries of what’s possible, and embrace innovation in unique ways. From how to discover new flavors, reimagine classics and surpass diners’ expectations, “LEVEL UP” is all about helping industry professionals take their craft and business to the next level, the company said.
“Whether you’re aiming to start or expand your business, foster a winning team, boost efficiency, or enhance overall quality of service, you can learn how to ‘Level Up’ at RC Show 2024,” Kelly Higginson, president and CEO of Restaurants Canada, said in a press release. “This year we’ll be celebrating innovation, excellence and the dynamic and deep-rooted essence of the Canadian hospitality sector. Our emphasis is on empowering attendees to elevate their skills in this constantly evolving industry, challenging conventional limits, investing in people, fueling their success, increasing line profitability, and wholeheartedly embracing the spirit of innovation.”
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Following a successful first year showcasing the country’s best pizzaiolos, the Restaurants Canada Pizza Competition now spans two live, action-packed days, thanks to presenting sponsors Ardent Mills, Lactalis Canada Foodservice and Dole.
Opening day, April 8, will feature a new focus on Traditional-style pizza, and April 9 will invite competitors to reimagine the classics and “level” things up with Creative pizzas.
Each day, 20 competitors will have the chance to stretch their skills in front of an esteemed panel of judges for a chance to take a piece of the pie from more than $10,000 in cash and prizes.
This year also features the Garland Canada Culinary Competition in which contestants transform ordinary ingredients from classic childhood dishes and raise them to the next level while telling their story through food. That competition, boasting more than $10,000 in cash and prizes, holds space for 50% of the competitors to be women and prioritizes BIPOC culinary talent.
The RC Show also introduces a new Fried Chicken Sandwich competition with $5,000 in cash and prizes on the table as well as the National Coffee Championships, including the Latte Art Championship, the new World Coffee in Good Spirits Championship and the Cezve/Ibrik Championship. Additionally, the Beyond the Rail Cocktail Competition will feature Canada’s top bartenders.
