Jonathan
DeSoto is a culinary management major from Marblehead, MA by way of New
Orleans. The inspiration for his
signature dish is a modern twist on a Cajun favorite. He and mentor Chef David Pazmino head to the regional competition on February 7.
If he wins the regional competition, DeSoto
and Chef Pazmino will be rewarded with a trip in March to the finals in the
Napa Valley of California to compete against the other regional winners. The big winner of the 2012 S.Pellegrino Almost Famous Chef will receive a
one-year paid apprenticeship and up to $22,000 in cash.
This is
the first time that a
student from Newbury College will participate in this competition that now
attracts more than 70 culinary schools in the U.S. and Canada.
For
centuries, S.Pellegrino® Sparkling
Natural Mineral Water and Acqua Panna®Natural Spring Water have
complemented fine food, wine and dining experiences. This passion for culinary
arts led to the creation of the Almost Famous Chef Competition in 2002 to support its passion for gastronomy
while continuing its commitment to the culinary arts and rising star
chefs.