The newest chef in the Temecula Valley was crowned the People’s Choice winner of the 5th Annual Chef Open on Monday night. Executive Chef Andrew Selz with Cellarz 93 won the coveted award thanks to a majority of votes by the 450 people in attendance.
Chef Selz has an extensive background in the culinary field including cooking for President Bill Clinton and hosting Food Network’s “Navy Chef Challenge”. Cellarz 93 is located where Harry’s Pacific Grill was in Bel Villaggio Shopping Center.
A second award, The Judge’s Pinnacle Award, was given to Chef Francesco Cusimano with Rustico Ristorante & Pizzeria. This award was based on presentation, creativity and taste. Judged by Chef Leah DiBernardo of E.A.T. Marketplace, bonus points were added for those chefs that used locally forged produce or proteins.
Other honorable mentions went to Chris Baily from Baily’s Old Town Temecula for plate presentation, Chef Steve Stawinski from Wilson Creek Winery for taste, Chef Daniel Chong Jimenez from Pechanga Resort & Casino and Chef Michael Cragg from Temecula Catering for creativity, and Sous Chef Francisco Ibarra from Provecho Grill for passion.
Prior to the Chef Open event, Oak Grove Center hosted a golf tournament where a foursome from Presenting Sponsor Pacific Floor Company won first place. Both events benefit the sports-recreation program and new gymnasium project at Oak Grove Center.
More information and photos from the 5th Annual Chef Open can be found at OakGroveCenter.org.