GRAHAM Temo, Chef De Partie at Fiji Airways Premier Lounge at Nadi International Airport, has taken top honours at the Crest Chicken National Salon Culinaire 2026, earning the title of Fiji Chef of the Year 2026.
Organised by the Fiji Chefs Association, the three-day competition was held from 19 to 21 October at Fiji National University’s Nadi Campus. It brought together more than 130 participants, with 155 entries across 17 classes, showcasing the depth of culinary talent across Fiji.
Representing Fiji Airways, Graham competed in a field that included chefs from some of the country’s leading hospitality establishments, including Laucala Island Resort, InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort, Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort and Grand Pacific Hotel.
In addition to winning the overall title, Graham also earned a Gold Medal, awarded to competitors whose performances meet the competition’s highest standard. His menu demonstrated exceptional craftsmanship, precision and innovation in a highly competitive field.
The Chef of the Year challenge required competitors to plan, prepare and present a three-course menu within three hours, featuring octopus for the entrée, lamb loin for the main course, and chocolate and local fruit for dessert. Participants were assessed on their technical skills, organisation, food safety, creativity, presentation, flavour and overall execution.
“The Fiji Chef of the Year title recognises a high standard of culinary skill, creativity and professionalism. Graham’s achievement is a great example of the talent we have in Fiji’s culinary industry and the dedication it takes to reach this level,” said Rakesh Kumar, President of the Fiji Chefs Association.
Beyond his achievement in the kitchen, Graham is part of the team that welcomes guests to the Fiji Airways Lounge, helping create the warm and memorable experience they associate with our airline.
Graham Temo said: “Years of dedication, sacrifice and passion for cooking have led to this defining moment in my career. Being named Chef of the Year 2026 means a great deal to me. It is more than an individual achievement; it reflects a journey of perseverance, faith and the support of those who have believed in me along the way.
“Being part of the Fiji Airways Premier Lounge team has challenged me to continually develop my skills and raise my standards as a chef. I am deeply grateful to my wife and children, my parents and siblings, as well as my colleagues and leaders, Anish Lal, Rafaele Galuvakadua and Aflas Ali, for their encouragement and guidance. I hope it inspires others to follow their passion for cooking.”
“Graham brings real skill and passion to our lounge every day, and it’s wonderful to see him recognised on a national stage. Coming so soon after Condé Nast Traveler readers voted our lounge among the world’s best, it shows the talent behind the experience our guests love. Congratulations, Graham,” said Paul Scurrah, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fiji Airways.
As Fiji’s national airline, we value the people who represent our home in so many different ways. Graham’s achievement is a wonderful example of the dedication and individual talents that make up our Fiji Airways team.
Source: Fiji Airways
Image Credit: The Fiji Times