With all due solemnity and in a festive atmosphere, the ceremony of the establishment and swearing-in of the Board of Directors and the first members of the international gastronomic organization Disciples Escoffier International in Cyprus took place in Ayia Napa, on Wednesday, October 01, 2025, in the presence of the Secretary General of Disciples Escoffier International Christian Heuline and the President of Europe Mr. Pierre Alain Favre, important personalities from the fields of gastronomy, hospitality and local government.
The President of the organization in Cyprus, Ms. Evi Chioti, in her speech emphasized that the creation of the new branch constitutes “a principle that honors heritage and embraces the future.” She emphasized that gastronomy is not only an art, but also a culture and a social act, while calling on all institutions and partners to support the organization’s work.
He made particular reference to the Municipality of Ayia Napa, emphasizing that it will constitute a "dynamic base" for the branch's actions and events, thanking the Municipality and Mayor Mr. Christos Zannetou for their generosity and hospitality.
Ms. Chioti presented the vision of the organization in Cyprus, which includes, among other things, the cultivation of excellence and lifelong learning, the promotion of sustainability and seasonality, with respect for the product and the producer, the promotion of the Cypriot gastronomic identity at an international level and the organization of Epicurus Dinners, masterclasses with distinguished chefs and the Jeunes Talents Escoffier competition to highlight new talents.
Concluding her speech, Ms. Chioti emphasized that "this evening is not just an oath, it is a promise. A promise to set the bar of hospitality higher, so that every dish brings care, respect and the unmistakable welcome of Cypriot hospitality."
Among the official guests who attended the official Dinner were the Mayor of Ayia Napa, Mr. Christos Zannetou, representatives of the French Embassy and the French Institute in Cyprus, as well as representatives of the hotel and educational sectors. At the same time, special mention was made to the sponsors who supported the event, with the Municipality of Ayia Napa being the major sponsor.
After the event, the Mayor of Ayia Napa, Mr. Christos Zannetou, stated in his statements that the "establishment and operation of the Disciples Escoffier International branch in Cyprus, based in Ayia Napa, constitutes an important milestone for the development of gastronomy and hospitality in our country, opening new avenues of cooperation, education and international recognition.
"It is a great honor for Ayia Napa," he added, "to host the branch of this international organization and expressed his warm thanks to the President, Mrs. Evi Chioti, the Board of Directors and all the members who entrusted the city with this great initiative."
