Levi Napack

Connect What is your signature dish?

My signature dish and the dish that made my wife fall in love with me is Risotto. Specifically a cheesy parmesan and lemon risotto with crispy prosciutto. It’s simple and comforting and something I make for all of her friends and family whenever I want to cook them a meal from the heart. For a more substantial option I often top it with braised chicken and gravy that my grandmother used to make or a simple chicken cutlet. That dish will always be special to me.

Who is your culinary inspiration?

Jacques Pépin was always someone I looked up to, learned from and wanted to be. I started watching his shows when I was a kid with my dad on PBS and it was an essential part of me wanting to become a chef and work in the kitchen. It was both comforting and exciting and I loved the way he talked and explained his way through cooking, food and caring for the ingredients and final presentation. His book The Apprentice which told his story and described his passion stuck with me and inspired

What would you do with the $25,000?

Honestly that money would be life changing. Being newly married and starting and growing a career in kitchens in new york has brought its challenges to my life and work has been nonstop. I love what I do and want to continue to do it and grow and learn and teach and eventually inspire others. That money would give me room to take time with my family, travel, explore food and culture, as well as put money towards a future place or concept of my own.