The Competitors
Chef Instructor Tony Hedger is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of Virginia College, Birmingham, Alabama, and holds an Associate's degree in Culinary Arts and an Associate's degree in Advanced Baking and Pastry. Chef Hedger has an extensive background in purchasing and cost control. Chef Hedger has opened a number of restaurants. He has been responsible for initial restaurant setup, operations cost control, staff training and menu/recipe creation.

Chef Instructor John Womick holds a Bachelors Degree in Culinary Arts as well as a Masters Degree in Business Administration from Johnson & Wales University in Rhode Island. Among the honors John received during his training, was the Anthony Kemalian Award for Excellence in the Culinary Arts. While attending Johnson & Wales, he began as a prep cook and worked up to Sous Chef of the catering kitchen at the renowned Gatehouse Restaurant & Catering Company of Rhode Island. There he had the honor and pleasure of serving many notable guests including Walter Cronkite, Graham Kerr, and President Bill Clinton. After returning to the St. Louis area in 2004, John accepted a position with Patty Long Catering that evolved into culinary and menu development.

Celebrity Chef Judges
Bob Menendez, Chef/Owner of Sunset 44 Restaurant

Tim Grandinetti, Executive Chef of the Renaissance Grand and Suites

Lou Rook, Executive Chef of Annie Gunn's Restaurant

Bernard Pilon, ACF Chef of the Year and Executive Chef of Norwood Hills Country Club