#Germany #Cologne #JRE #International Congress

Cologne Set to Welcome International Chefs at JRE Congress 2026

Cologne, Germany, is gearing up to host the prestigious JRE-Jeunes Restaurateurs International Congress 2026 on April 19 and 20. This remarkable event expects to attract over 500 participants, including more than 400 world-class chefs, sommeliers, and restaurateurs from over 20 nations. With an inspiring theme, the two-day gathering will delve into the future of gastronomy through the lenses of innovation, sustainability, and global collaboration.

A Bold Future for Gastronomy

Daniel Canzian, the president of JRE-International, encapsulated the spirit of the congress by stating, "It’s time to build the future together." The theme for 2026, RE•GENERATION, focuses on being daring, authentic, and creating the next chapter in culinary culture. This initiative aligns with JRE's mission to cultivate creativity while rethinking purposes and regenerating vision within the culinary landscape.

Host City: Cologne

Cologne, a vibrant city nestled on the banks of the Rhine, is renowned for its Gothic cathedral, rich cultural heritage, and flourishing gastronomy. This setting offers an ideal backdrop for the congress, situated in one of Germany’s most dynamic culinary regions.

Major Highlights to Anticipate

Global Expansion

A key announcement at the congress will be JRE's intercontinental expansion to South America, welcoming founding members from Argentina, Chile, Colombia, and Peru. This move signifies a bold step in JRE's mission to enhance global culinary dialogues.

Gala Dinner

The congress will commence with an exquisite gala dinner at Flora, featuring a sumptuous eight-course menu crafted by Michelin-starred chefs Jan-Philipp Berner, Frédéric Morel, Sebastian Obendorfer, and Tobias Bätz. This culinary experience promises to be a highlight, showcasing the best of JRE-Germany's culinary talent.

JRE-Awards Ceremony

During the gala, the JRE-International Awards will be presented, acknowledging outstanding contributions across six categories, thanks to partnerships with JRE-International’s affiliates. Categories include:

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

To find out more about the nominees, visit JRE Awards 2026.

JRE-Summit Kitchen Party Edition

Next year’s JRE-Summit is planned as a Kitchen Party format where over 500 participants, including JRE members, partners, press, and guests, will engage in masterclasses, tastings, and live cooking demonstrations, inspiring new ideas and establishing valuable networks.

About JRE-Jeunes Restaurateurs

Established in 1974, JRE-Jeunes Restaurateurs connects over 400 restaurants and 160 hotels across more than 20 countries. For more information about their initiatives and community, visit JRE Official Site.