Luxury Hospitality Magazine reports that Don Papa Rum, the premium small-batch rum from the Philippines, has announced the winners of its annual Don Papa Rum competition—Chefs & Shakers 2025. The nationwide event pairs chefs and bartenders in a creative challenge to showcase bold flavors, inventive storytelling, and the vibrant spirit of the Philippines.
The final round took place on July 25th at the iconic Rock Oyster Festival, a celebration of food, music, and coastal culture. Five chef-bartender pairs battled to impress the judges, but it was Max Hayward and Joshua Chapman who claimed the crown.
Their winning combination included:
According to Luxury Hospitality Magazine, the pair drew inspiration from Filipino cuisine’s rich diversity and the Bayanihan spirit of community.
Each team worked with a pantry of Filipino staples such as ube powder, calamansi, and banana ketchup to create their signature pairings. The goal was to capture the mystical energy of Sugarlandia, the legendary land that symbolizes Don Papa Rum’s origins on the island of Negros.
Guests and judges enjoyed the dishes inside Don Papa’s Sugarlandia-inspired Balay, which created an immersive cultural atmosphere.
The competition jury featured leading voices from the culinary and beverage world, including Filipino chef and supper club host Mae Magnaye-Williams and drinks industry expert Cressida Lawlor. Hospitality professionals and festivalgoers also joined the vibrant crowd to celebrate innovation and flavor.
Nepheli Akrivopoulou, Don Papa’s UK Brand Ambassador and winner of Best Mixologist 2025 at the Bar Magazine Awards, hosted the finals. She told Luxury Hospitality Magazine:
“We are delighted for Max and Josh as their creativity and use of Don Papa Rum in both the cocktail and dish was incredible. The flavors perfectly represented the magic of The Philippines.”
The victory comes at a pivotal time. Don Papa Rum recently relaunched in the UK and is now available at Majestic and Amazon. The Don Papa Rum competition not only celebrates Filipino culture but also highlights the brand’s growing presence in the global spirits market.
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Luxury Hospitality Magazine Article — Don Papa Rum Announces the Winners of the Chefs & Shakers 2025 UK Competition
The image of the article is courtesy of © MaximFesenko via Canva.com
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