Nine chefs hosted sponsors, guests, and community leaders at their respective restaurants on February 28th for a three-course meal with pairings in support of Achievement Academy’s eighth annual Top Chef of Polk County! With the support of our community, this year’s event proved to be our most successful yet, raising $230,000 that will benefit the children we serve!
Congratulations to Chef Lucy Cortes-Castaneda, Red Door Lakeland, for winning the coveted title of Top Chef of Polk County with her masterpiece that included homemade ricotta dumplings, braised rabbit, rutabaga puree, seared rabbit saddle, and elephant garlic chips. Chef Nicolas Mut, Terrace Grille, took home the award for Most Creative Chef for his use of the mystery ingredient, a new award this year.
Pat Spinosa, AgAmerica Lending, and Chef Cem Demirhan secured the highly sought-after recognition as our Top Philanthropic team, raising nearly $70,000 for our programs. All of our Chefs and Community Leader teams did an outstanding job with their fundraising efforts, collectively raising more than $130,000!
A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the division of consumer services by calling toll-free within the state 1-800-435-7352. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the state.
