Every year the American Culinary Federation, through their long-standing commitment to promoting fresh culinary talent, hosts its student culinarian competition. 

Sponsored by Custom Culinary, Inc., the ACF National Student Culinarian of the Year Award recognizes an up-and-coming student who demonstrates a high level of professionalism, culinary skills and a passion for the culinary arts. 

Winners, chosen from the four ACF regions, compete against each other for the title of National Student Culinarian of the Year. The national competition requires all four regional winners to prepare the same meal, and their interpretation and execution of the required dishes are critiqued by a panel of judges.

This year's competition was held during the ACF's 58th annual National Convention in Las Vegas, July 14-17. JohnMichael Lynch won the honor of 2008 National Student Culinarian of the Year.

To learn more about JohnMichael Lynch, Andy Oktayuren, Nicholas Hernandez and Lindsay Kinateder, click here:

Ender “Andy” Oktayuren
Central ACF Student Culinarian of the Year:
ACF Louis Joliet Chapter

 JohnMichael F. Lynch
Southeast ACF Student Culinarian of the Year:
ACF Greater Atlanta Chapter

Nicholas Hernandez
Northeast ACF Student Culinarian of the Year:
ACF Chefs and Cooks of the Catskill Mountains

Lindsay Kinateder
Western ACF Student Culinarian of the Year:
ACF Colorado Chefs Association

Custom Culinary, Inc. congratulates JohnMichael Lynch and his fellow competitors on their dedication to the culinary arts profession. 

© 2008 Custom Culinary, Inc. All rights reserved.