Meet the Cheshire gelato chef representing the UK on the world stage

Good luck Samantha!

A Cheshire gelato chef is representing the UK on the world stage over the next two days. Samantha Cunliffe, of Bene Gelateria in Frodsham, is competing at the Gelato Festival World Masters European Final in Bologna.

Taking place at Carpigiani’s headquarters across two days - October 30 and 31 - Samantha will compete against more than 40 finalists from around the world. She is only one of three finalists from the UK hoping to earn a coveted place in the World Final and the ultimate title of Gelato Festival World Masters Champion.

Winning the Manchester heat with the flavour ‘Chocolate Orange Cocco Crunch’, Samantha impressed the judges with her custard-based gelato infused with ginger, cinnamon and orange; with dark chocolate stracciatella and diced candied ginger on top.

Carpigiani UK’s Managing Director Paul Ingram said: "The Gelato Festival World Masters brings together the very best artisan gelato chefs from across the globe and the entire Carpigiani team is looking forward to welcoming all international regional finalists to the European Final.

"Representing the UK is a huge achievement and we’re incredibly proud to be supporting Samantha, and our other UK finalists Daniele and Jon, as they head to Bologna to compete for a place in the World Championship in 2026.” The European Final will showcase the very best in artisan gelato, bringing together exceptional gelato chefs, each presenting an array of creative and delicious gelato dishes – created using professional Carpigiani equipment – to a panel of industry experts who will critique the taste, structure, creativity, and presentation of the gelato.

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