During Megavino, Brussels EXPO on Sunday 21 October 2018, the 'Star of the Belgian Kitchen' (Ster van de Belgische keuken) title was awarded to Sam van Houcke of the (future) restaurant MASTE in Gent. As with the previous three iterations, The Star of the Belgian Kitchen challenged four young Belgian chefs and their respective teams to claim the title. 

For the finals, the two finalists Sam Van Houcke and Archibald De Prince were to present new creations, created from products found in a 'mystery box,' supplemented by several staple ingredients. These were the only ingredients allowed to be used in the dishes, although contestants weren't obligated to use every ingredient. Sam Van Houcke chose the following ingredients for his dish: Peter's Farm Veal, Parsnip, chanterelles, shallots, red wine vinegar, garlic, and thyme. Aside from the mandatory chocolate, he also chose to add pear, macadamia nuts and a chocolate ganache to his desert. The winner of the Star of the Belgian Kitchen was presented with gifts including a 'Golden' Rational oven, a MSC cruise for 2, and a Peter's Farm Veal gift card. 

A prestigious jury, under the presence of her royal majesty Princess Alexandre of Belgium, and chaired by head chef Pierre Wynants, consisted of, among others Master cook Frank Fol – Chairman of The Mastercooks of Belgium and Master cook Felix Alen - Vice-chairman Flanders The Mastercooks of Belgium. 

The Star of the Belgian Kitchen competition is organised once every 2 years. The winner, Sam Van Houcke - or, if he is not available, the second finalist, Archibald De Prince - will represent Belgium at the Worldchefs International Global Chefs Challenge. This international competition will be organised in cooperation with the National Culinary Team - Belgium. Click here for more information.