Genesis

What is your signature dish?

My signature dish is a tender sous vide beef tenderloin served with herb-infused mashed potatoes and a rich 16-hour beef reduction sauce. While the techniques are refined, the inspiration comes from the comfort food I grew up with. I love taking familiar flavors that bring people together and elevating them with care and patience. For me, great food isn't just about presentation—it's about creating a meal that feels comforting, memorable, and made with heart.

Who is your culinary inspiration?

My biggest culinary inspirations are both of my grandmothers. They showed me how food brings people together and creates lasting memories around the table. Professionally, I've been fortunate to work with many talented chefs and cooks. I started as a grill cook and worked my way up to sous chef and food service manager. Every person I've worked with has taught me something valuable, and I carry a piece of each of them with me in every dish I create.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Winning $25,000 would help me build the small food business I've always dreamed of. I believe food should be made from real ingredients, not shortcuts. From stocks and sauces to mashed potatoes and proteins, I take pride in making everything from scratch and letting quality ingredients speak for themselves. This opportunity would help me purchase equipment, get my business off the ground, and share the kind of honest, handcrafted food that first made me fall in love with cooking.