The Art Institute of Pittsburgh

CLICK HERE to learn about the Ai Best Teen Chef Culinary Scholarship Competition

Teen Chef Participants

REGIONAL FIRST PLACE WINNER - BEST TEEN CHEF 2008

Michael A. Denman

Cortland, Ohio

Lakeview High School

Age 18

Michael Denman began working at Avalon Inn Resort and Conference Center, helping ot set up for large banquets. It wasn't long before Chef Kyle Mayetta took Michael on as a protege and such began his passion for the culinary industry. Today, he's a prep chef at the Avalon Inn, a full-service resort in northeast Ohio owned by John Kouvas.

"I love the rhythm and the pace of the industry," said Denman. "It's an incredible feeling to be part of a team that makes it all happen and makes people happy." The evening before the regional competition in Pittsburgh, Denman helped to serve over 250 people for a banquet before traveling to Pittsburgh. "I learned everything I know at Avalon," said the aspiring chef.

Michael Denman plans to attend The Art Institute of Pittsburgh this fall. His career goal is to open a high-end steakhouse in Colorado.

Michael, his parents, and sister, are looking forward to traveling to Las Vegas to compete in the national Best Teen Chef competition on May 17. "No matter what happpens, I will have so much to take away from this extraordinary experience."

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