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Nine talented students fired up their creativity for the chance to win a culinary apprenticeship in Japan.
For the second year in a row, we sponsored the Kikkoman Student Innovation Challenge in collaboration with the nation’s leading training ground for chefs, the Culinary Institute of America.
The 2025 Kikkoman Student Innovation Challenge held at the Culinary Institute of America’s Hyde Park, New York campus
Student chefs, endless inspiration
The challenge was simple—though far from easy: showcase your innovation, knowledge, and creativity using Kikkoman® Soy Sauce (Original, Less Sodium, and/or Gluten-Free Tamari) as the central seasoning in a globally inspired entrée.
The stakes were high: one grand-prize winner would receive a once-in-a-lifetime culinary adventure—a trip to Japan for a seven-day apprenticeship at the three-Michelin-starred Kikunoi Restaurant in Kyoto, along with immersive culinary and cultural tours of local markets, historic sites, and more.
To narrow the field, CIA students were invited to submit a 60-second video describing their dish. From 35 entries, nine outstanding finalists were selected to bring their creations to life during a live cookoff at the CIA’s Hyde Park, New York campus.
