#Germany #Cologne #International Congress #JRE-Jeunes Restaurateurs

Cologne Set to Host the 2026 International JRE Congress

In an exciting announcement, the international association of restaurateurs, JRE-Jeunes Restaurateurs, has confirmed that the much-anticipated 2026 International Congress will take place in Cologne, Germany, on April 19-20, 2026. This remarkable event is expected to attract over 500 attendees, including more than 400 chefs, sommeliers, and restaurant owners from over 20 different countries.

Under the inspiring theme RE•GENERATION, the two-day congress will delve into the future of gastronomy, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and global collaboration. Daniel Canzian, the president of JRE-International, emphasized the essence of the gathering, stating, "It is time to build the future, together. RE•GENERATION symbolizes boldness, truth, and paving the next chapter in food and culture."

A Vision for the Future

The 2026 congress embodies JRE’s mission of sowing the seeds for the future. It aims to cultivate creativity and rethink purpose while regenerating with a clear vision. The JRE continually evolves as a global community that promotes excellence and cultural exchange in the culinary world.

The Vibrant Setting of Cologne

Hosted by JRE-Germany, the congress will occur in Cologne, a vibrant city located along the Rhine River. Renowned for its stunning Gothic cathedral, rich cultural heritage, and thriving gastronomy scene, Cologne serves as the ideal backdrop for this prestigious event, situated in one of Germany's most dynamic culinary regions.

Major Highlights of the Event

Global Expansion Announcement

One of the key announcements during the congress will be JRE’s official expansion into South America, welcoming founding members from Argentina, Chile, Colombia, and Peru. This move marks a significant step forward for the JRE as it strengthens its global presence.

Gala Dinner

The event will kick off with a lavish gala dinner held at Flora, featuring an exquisite eight-hand menu prepared by acclaimed JRE-Germany chefs: Jan-Philipp Berner, Frédéric Morel, Sebastian Obendorfer, and Tobias Bätz. This culinary showcase promises to delight the taste buds of all in attendance.

JRE Awards Ceremony

During the gala dinner, the International JRE Awards will honor extraordinary contributions across six categories, in collaboration with JRE's international partners:

• - Chef of the Year by PASTIFICIO DEI CAMPI
• - Sommelier of the Year by MARCHESI ANTINORI
• - Excellence in Hospitality Award by MASTERCARD
• - RE•GENERATION Award by CARPIGIANI
• - Taste of Origins Award by PARMIGIANO REGGIANO
• - Sustainability Award by MARIE-STELLA-MARIS

For a full list of nominees, interested individuals can visit JRE’s official website.

Kitchen Party at JRE Summit

Next year, the JRE summit will transform into an engaging Kitchen Party edition, where over 500 participants, including JRE members, partners, journalists, and, for the first time, guests, will come together for masterclasses, tastings, and live cooking demonstrations. This interactive format fosters inspiration and networking among culinary enthusiasts.

About JRE-Jeunes Restaurateurs

Founded in 1974, JRE-Jeunes Restaurateurs connects more than 400 restaurants and 160 hotels across over 20 countries. The organization is dedicated to promoting culinary excellence and fostering cultural exchanges in the global gastronomic landscape. For more information, visit JRE’s official website.