Romane Francis

Herb-stuffed chicken breast, filled with a savory mousse of chicken thigh and fresh herbs, roasted to perfection and finished with a rich demi-glace. Served with silky butternut squash purée, charred broccolini, and crispy sunchokes for texture and balance. This dish highlights classic technique, bold flavors, and thoughtful presentation, reflecting my passion for creating elevated comfort food inspired by both tradition and creativity.

My biggest culinary inspiration is my brother. Growing up in Jamaica, I watched him begin his career as a chef in the hotel industry, and from that moment, I knew I wanted to follow in his footsteps. His passion, discipline, and dedication sparked my love for cooking at a young age. While my career has grown beyond what either of us imagined, he remains my greatest motivation. Every day, his example reminds me to push harder, think creatively, and strive for excellence.

Winning $25,000 would be a life-changing opportunity that would help me take a major step toward my dream of owning my own restaurant. The funds would be used to invest in essential equipment, secure a location, develop my menu, and cover startup costs. As a passionate chef who has dedicated my life to the culinary industry, this support would allow me to turn years of hard work, creativity, and experience into a thriving business where I can share my love of food with the community