Aspira University of Applied Sciences proudly highlights the achievements of its current and former students, whose results confirm both the quality of its education and their dedicated work. A major success in Croatian gastronomy comes through the story of Ines Jurišić, an alumna of Aspira University, who has won the prestigious trophy “Great Chef of Tomorrow 2026,” awarded by Gault&Millau Croatia.
Annual trophies for the best chefs and restaurants in Croatia
At the official ceremony held on March 17 at the Esplanade Hotel in Zagreb, Gault&Millau Croatia celebrated the release of the ninth edition of its bilingual international guide for Croatia and presented annual trophies to ten new laureates.
The “Great Chef of Tomorrow 2026” trophy was awarded to Ines Jurišić from Bistro Beška in Čakovec, and it was presented to her by Monika Udovičić, State Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Croatia.
This award recognizes talent, dedication, and authenticity, and Jurišić impressed the expert jury with her culinary approach – combining local ingredients, creativity, and a strong personal signature.
“Every plate I create begins in the garden and ends in the guest’s memory. If Gault&Millau recognized that, then we know we are moving in the right direction.”
From education to recognition: an inspiring success
The particular value of this achievement lies in the fact that Ines Jurišić built her knowledge and the foundation of her career at Aspira University of Applied Sciences. Through an education focused on practical skills, contemporary culinary trends, and working with top mentors, Aspira continuously educates new generations of professionals who leave their mark on both the domestic and international gastronomic scene. This approach enables students to gain experience during their studies that sets them apart in the job market and prepares them for the highest professional challenges.
The Gault&Millau Croatia awards ceremony once again demonstrated the strong development of Croatian gastronomy, and successes like this confirm that young chefs, including many Aspira alumni, play a key role in that progress. Their creativity, innovation, and commitment to continuous learning contribute to raising standards and increasing the global recognition of Croatian cuisine.
The success of Ines Jurišić serves as an inspiration for future students and stands as proof that passion, knowledge, and dedicated work can lead to outstanding results.