And the Winner Is…

I’m so excited to show you the grand finale video from the Embassy Chef Challenge. I had so much fun being a host for the third year in a row, interviewing all the talented embassy chefs and the panel of celebrity judges on hand this year. Watch interviews with Chef Carla Hall, Chef Duff Goldman, Joe Yonan and many more.  And if you don’t already know, watch to find out who won the challenge!

Challenge Hungary

It all starts with “Challenge Hungary.” In this video, I had the opportunity to channel my inner “Padma Lashki” (well actually I think I’m more of a Gail Simmons kind of gal) and interview all of the amazing and talented embassy chefs at this year’s Top-Chef style cook-off competition.

Check out some photos of the event.

The Embassy Chefs and judges lined up for the winning presentation

Chef Carla Hall, pictured below, has been a part of this event from its inception. She is truly one of the nicest people I have ever interviewed. Good to see this native Washingtonian hasn’t let fame go to her head in any way, shape or form. Hall is so passionate and talented and still the same fun-loving quirky chef we  all saw on Top Chef. Catch her on The Chew weekdays on ABC.

Here I am interviewing Chef Carla Hall

Chef “Duff” Goldman judge at this year’s challenge.

What It’s All About

The Embassy Chef Challenge event gives you access to one of D.C.’s best-kept secrets: world-class embassy chefs. At the event you can sample the same cuisine served to heads of state and regional delicacies from around the world.

A panel of celebrity chefs and food critics select the winner of the Judge’s Choice Award, while attendees cast a ballot for the People’s Choice winner. Rounding out the evening was a live, silent auction featuring world-class items steeped in international flavor including private embassy experiences. As you watch the video, you can see Chef Nathan Bates from the Embassy of New Zealand swept the competition and won all three categories — a first time for this to happen.

Challenge New Zealand

Go New Zealand! See you all next year for “Challenge New Zealand”

Chef Nathan Bates, Embassy of New Zealand pictured with all his trophies

Article by: Vanessa Camozzi