LYNCHBURG, VA – Chef Edwin Scholly, Executive Chef of The Craddock Terry Hotel, has been selected as a judge for the 26th annual IKA/International Culinary Olympics. This round in the selection process for the prestigious competition takes place in Atlanta followed by the international competition on February 2 – 7, 2024 in Messe Stuttgart, Germany.

The German Chefs Association (VKD) is the organizer of the IKA/Culinary Olympics and hosts the competition. Cooking talents with a special passion for competition will meet at the IKA. This great culinary showdown is divided into these categories:

  • National Teams
  • Junior National Teams
  • Regional Teams
  • Community Catering Teams
  • Individual Exhibitors and Live Carvers

Chef Scholly brings an impressive culinary background to the judging panel. He previously won accolades as a competitor for the German National Team in 1991 and 1994. He is James Beard Award winner leading the culinary direction for the Craddock Terry’s food and beverage programming, including Shoemakers American Grille, both a local and regional favorite specializing in a classic steak and seafood fine dining experience in an upscale, industrial setting. The restaurant was voted for the "Best Seafood and Best Steaks" by Virginia Living Magazine. Shoemakers was also awarded the "Certificate of Excellence" by TripAdvisor as one of the Best Places to Dine in Lynchburg, VA.

Originally from Heidelberg, Germany, I am honored to be selected as a judge for the IKA/International Culinary Olympics, said Chef Scholly. This competition represents the pinnacle of culinary excellence, and I look forward to recognizing and celebrating the talents of chefs from around the world.

Master Chef Edwin Scholly was born in Heidelberg, Germany. He grew up with his mother, sister, and grandparents, who supported his love of the hospitality industry and encouraged him to work in every aspect of their small hotel, restaurant, and vineyard. At a young age, with the support of his family, he developed a love of food, an uncanny ability to identify the freshest of ingredients, and through time, an appreciation for the red wines his family produced.

At the age of 14, Chef Scholly earned an apprenticeship with the renowned French Master Chef Paul Bocuse in Lyon, France. This experience led him to travel the world, from Europe to Africa, Asia, and the Americas, cooking local and regional cuisines. During this experience, he met and learned from the well-known and the unknown masters that would help him fulfill his lifelong love of cooking.

Chef achieved the title of Master Chef in Germany in 1996 and received the James Beard Award in N.Y. in 2011. Chef Scholly continued his passion for learning and teaching by becoming a certified sommelier, an ACF certified executive chef (CEC), and certified chef educator (CCE). Chef’s clientele has included prominent names, such as Madonna, Donald Trump, Bruce Springsteen, Sir Paul McCartney, Neil Diamond, and Garth Brooks. We are honored to have Master Chef Scholly bring his storied career in culinary excellence to the Craddock Terry Hotel and Event Center overseeing the culinary division behind Shoemakers American Grille, Waterstone Pizzeria, and The Craddock Terry Hotel Event Center.

The Craddock Terry Hotel's General Manager, Schuyler Clark, expressed his pride in Chef Scholly’s selection stating, We are delighted to see Chef Scholly's talent and hard work being recognized on a global stage. His contribution to the Craddock Terry Hotel’s culinary success has been remarkable and he has truly elevated the dining experience at our premiere boutique hotel. I have no doubt that he will bring the same dedication to the IKA Culinary Olympics judging panel."

About The Craddock Terry Hotel

The Craddock Terry Hotel, located in Lynchburg, VA, is known for its blend of history, luxury, and hospitality. What was once a turn-of-the-century shoe factory has been transformed into a one-of-a-kind luxury hotel. Witness a unique blend of original brick warehouse architecture and chic modern style and historical artifacts from the heyday of the Craddock-Terry Shoe Corporation. Whether you are looking for an inspired meal or the coziest overnight stay in Central Virginia, the Craddock Terry Hotel is "always the perfect fit." From the moment you are greeted by Penny Loafer, our four-legged official welcoming committee, your stay will be marked by charming and whimsical details.

For more information on The Craddock Terry Hotel or Chef Scholly’s role at the International Culinary Olympics, please contact Pam Devaney at Resonate PR: [760.846.4640] [email protected]