Chefs vs. City – Savannah

The week has just begun and already it’s a busy one!  Last month I had a call from the producers of “Chefs vs. City”, a show on the Food Network that features two chefs who travel to various cities to compete against local chefs in food related competitions.  They were making plans for an episode here in Savannah and wanted to check out 700 Kitchen Cooking School as a possible venue for a competition in the Savannah episode.

When they arrived to scout the location I figured they were just looking for a kitchen space to use.  I was totally surprised to learn that they also wanted to use me as a judge for the competition!  The two chefs, Aaron Sanchez and Chris Cosentino are typically paired against a couple of local chefs in each battle.  Monday evening was spent meeting with the producers and crew to determine final set-up and layout of the room as well as finalize the challenge.

Yesterday brought “beauty shots” of several food items representative of my classes (Pecan Praline Angel Food Cake, Veal Osso Buco with Saffron Risotto, and Citrus & Fennel Salad with Orange Blossom Vinaigrette), and taping of “B-Roll” which is the term for background footage to “set the stage” for the location….exterior of hotel, the restaurant and kitchen, chef Michael Semancik’s food from 700 Drayton Restaurant and a portion of this evening’s class.

The episode is expected to air sometime in May.  Hopefully I’ll be able to a few photos during te taping and share them before then!

Tagged as: 700 Drayton Restaurant, 700 Kitchen Cooking School, Aaron Sanchez, Chef's vs. City, Chris Cosentino, Cooking Competition, Food Network