Galerie Patisserie head pastry chef Andrea Manna has been named as the Australian Emerging Pâtissier of the Year.

The competition was held as part of Food & Hospitality Week 2026, which was held in Sydney from May 25-27, 2026.

Andrea began his career in Italy, where developed strong skills in both Italian and French pastry ranging from petit gâteaux and petit fours, cake decorations to gelato-making and chocolate tempering. After moving to Australia three years ago Andrea expanded his repertoire to include laminated viennoiserie and high-end pastries.

The Emerging Pâtissier of the Year competition was designed to recognise and support chefs in the early stages of their careers. One of the requirements of entry was for competitors to have no more than 10 years of professional experience, allowing the competition to shine a spotlight on the next generation of pastry professionals.

Challenges for the competition included savoury gelato, creative filled Viennoiserie, and Petit Four, with the pâtissier with the  most points being crowned the winner.

Other competitions held as part of Food & Hospitality Week 2026 included Australian Professional Chef of the Year, Australian Pizza Championships, Australia’s Best Burger Competition, and Battle of the Butchers.

Food & Hospitality Week was developed by National Media following its acquisition of Foodservice Australia in 2024.

National Media chief executive officer Brad Langton said, “launched 58 years ago Foodservice Australia is the nation’s longest-running foodservice and catering industry trade event.”

“We are thrilled to be the new custodians of this iconic event and committed to returning it to its core focus, serving as a dedicated platform and hub for the hospitality and foodservice community.”