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LA LISTE has unveiled its 2025 Pastry Special Awards, honoring 36 outstanding pastry chefs and entrepreneurs across 18 countries.

The awards spotlight global talent, rising female leadership (with women making up 60% of recipients), and the growing influence of dessert in hospitality and gastronomy.

Key Winners:

• World’s Most Creative Pastry Chef: Maxime Frédéric (Cheval Blanc Paris, Café Louis Vuitton, Plein Coeur)

• Award of Honor: Iginio Massari (Italy)

• Game Changer: Pooja Dhingra (India)

• World’s Best Pastry Shop: Claridge’s ArtSpace Café by Thibaut Hauchard (London)

• Best Afternoon Tea: Jessica Préalpato (San Régis, Paris) & Jonathan Soudkeo (Rosewood, Hong Kong)

• Pastry Innovation: Yazid Ichemrahen (France/Qatar) & The French Bastards team (Paris)

Trends to Watch:

• Afternoon Tea is being reimagined as a premium, theatrical guest experience.

• Pastry Entrepreneurship is thriving—from boutique startups to luxury hotel showcases.

• Digital Stardom & Brand Building: Pastry chefs are now social influencers and brand strategists.

• Global Shifts: While France remains the training ground, the UK, US, and Asia are leading innovation.

Strategic Impact:
High-end hotels and restaurants are turning pastry into a business driver—integrating signature desserts, luxury in-house boutiques, and immersive tea programs to enhance guest engagement and brand distinction.

LA LISTE’s Role:
With over 3,000 pastry establishments listed globally, LA LISTE supports this growing ecosystem through curated rankings, awards, and the International Pastry Forum—returning this year to foster industry dialogue and sustainability.

For more details, visit laliste.com.