Participating in the Vintage European Gourmet Gala Lunch held on 17 December 2025 at Regency College was a valuable learning experience for me as a final-year culinary student. The event allowed us to apply our practical skills while executing a seven-course pre-plated Table d’Hôte menu inspired by various European cuisines. I was actively involved in the planning and execution of the menu, which helped me understand the importance of precision, teamwork, and time management in a professional kitchen. The artistic highlights, including Thai 3D carvings and the impressive 10-kg butter swan sculpture, created under the guidance of Chef Naga Manikanta, added a unique visual appeal to the gala. The presence of Mr. Gareth Wynn Owen, British Deputy High Commissioner, along with Chef Naveen Nagaraj and Chef Rizwan Abdul Khader, made the event even more inspiring. Overall, the gala enhanced my confidence and strengthened my passion for pursuing a career in the culinary industry. - Nikhil.T