Eric Ripert Surprises Michelin Scholarship Contestants at Kendall College

Today, Michelin is hosting a contest at Kendall College to award one deserving graduating senior its $5,000 Michelin Scholarship for Culinary Excellence. During the contest, the students had to re-create a dish from one of five Chicago restaurants recognized in the 2011 Chicago Michelin Guide: Blackbird, Purple Pig, Avenues, Naha and Spiaggia.

During the contest, being judged by Tony Mantuano, Jimmy Bannos Sr. and Jr., Paul Kahan, Dave Posey, Carrie Nahabedian, Curtis Duffy and Kendall's exec director Christopher Koetke, the young chefs and guests got a surprise when three-star chef Eric Ripert, from New York's Le Bernardin and of Top Chef fame, made a surprise guest appearance.

Ripert offered the winning chef the option of doing a stage at his restaurant; the winner, which won't be announced until later, can also select from the Chicago restaurants. We'll keep you posted.
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Eric Ripert [Photo: Top Scallops]