Smith defeated six other UK finalists under 25-years-old to win training alongside Virgilio Martinez at his Central restaurant in Lima, Peru. Runners up were awarded a placement with Peruvian chef and founder of Ceviche Martin Morales.
Jaime Cardenas, director of the Peru Trade and Investment Office who ran the competition, said: “The competition provided young chefs with the opportunity to become well-acquainted with Peruvian food, and the reliability of supply and quality of Peruvian ingredients.
“Our ultimate aim was to discover a young ambassador for Peruvian food, who has gained a real understanding of the term ‘Superfoods from Peru’ and whose enthusiasm and ability will inspire others.”
Smith won the competition with a menu that included Lamb with cocoa, caramelized sweet potatoes and charred purple potato cream, and chocolate praline with quinoa hazelnut ice cream and kiwicha crunch.
The judging panel included Morales, chef lecturer and author Jose Souto, and food author and columnist Lindsey Bareham.