The first annual Chef's Challenge took place April 26 -27 at Shanty Creek in Bellaire, MI. Two teams from the U.P. were present and represented well. NMU's Hospitality Management students and The Island Resort and Casino were both on hand to participate. The winning chef team of the 4 "North" representatives was Chef Kyle Marshall of Red Mesa Grill. Chef David Hathaway of Wynngate Country Club took top honors of the 3 "South" participants. The two top teams competed Sunday in an Iron Chef type Showdown with Chef Kyle Marshall taking the bragging rights of Top Chef in Michigan. Congratulation and thanks to all who took part. Kudos the the student helpers. Without them many of the teams would have crumbled!!
* The last week of April each year has been designated as Springtime Splendor Week throughout Michigan. This will be the theme for a fundraising event (FLIER) for Challenge Mountain (www.challengemtn.org) at Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire, MI. (www.shantycreek.com). By March 21 Michigan chefs must submit recipes featuring Michigan products and wines/microbrews. Of these entries 4 "North" and 4 "South" 3-person chef teams will be selected to participate in the event. One team from each region will be voted into an Iron Chef Style Competition to determine the Michigan's Chef Challenge Champion. If interested or for more information check out the developing website at www.chefs-challenge.com .