Chef David Ljungqvist from Portal Restaurant in Stockholm will be offering the benefits of his culinary experience and expertise to mentoree Jerome Lanmark Calayag in the fourth edition of the global talent search to find the best young chef in the world, S.Pellegrino Young Chef.
Sharing the same kitchen in the build-up to the event the Swedish chefs will be working together to create a coherent message with Calayag's vegetarian signature dish, "humble vegetables" in preparation for judgment day in front of the international panel of judges.
Ljungqvist spoke to Fine Dining Lovers about his role as mentor and food and friendship ahead of the big day:
Can you remember the moment you decided to become a chef – what inspired you and what obstacles did you overcome to achieve your dream?
It was not a single moment, more a general feeling I had towards food ever since I was young. Food means family and friends for me. Being able to make delicious food for the people I love is a privilege.