Previous Story
Retardo takes Chefs’ Competition at ‘Taste’
|
Posted on Jun 12 2012
“Gollai Appan Katnen” (Vegetable Beef Stew), the entry of Mariana Resort’s executive chef William Retardo, garnered the judges’ nod to win first place in the May 26, 2012, Certified Angus Beef Chefs’ Competition at the 14th Annual Taste of the Marianas International Food Festival & Beer Garden.
This year’s theme was Marianas Beef Stew. Retardo and his culinary team bested entries from four other hotels to walk off with $500 cash from the Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands, other prizes, and bragging rights for the next year. Entries from Hyatt Regency Saipan and Pacific Islands Club Saipan rounded out 2nd and 3rd place, respectively.
Retardo’s winning entry was proudly served to patrons at Mariana Resort & Spa 12th Night restaurant later that weekend.
Meanwhile, top honors for the Booth Decorating Competition went to Coral Ocean Point Resort this year, followed by Tropical Chill, Herman’s Modern Bakery, and Fiesta Resort & Spa. COP scored highest overall on a list of criteria including overall look of island theme presentation, creativity, originality, use of local and indigenous material, and use of recyclable material.
The Chefs’ Competition was also sponsored by Triple J Five Star Wholesale Foods and Certified Angus Beef.
“Overall, we are extremely satisfied with this year’s Taste of the Marianas celebration and our turnout,” said Marianas Visitors Authority Community Projects manager Martin Duenas. “’Taste’ is like a good recipe; every time we put it on we keep the basic ingredients, but look for new spices or twists to enhance the flavor. We’re very grateful to our sponsors, our vendors, and the community for making this year’s event a winner.” (MVA)
