Fleming's Steakhouse vs. Crooked Spoon

Cook-off winner chef Alec Cheaks of Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar

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Last night I judged the third and final cook-off of the Whole Foods Market’s 20 Minutes $20 Fill the Grill Challenge in Orlando. Chef Alec Cheak of Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar battled chef Steve Saelg of the Crooked Spoon for the top spot — and it was close.

Cheak’s perfectly grilled pork was served on a bed of fresh spinach, accompanied by glazed peaches tossed in a mix of cinnamon, cane sugar, salt, pepper and olive oil. The chef added potato waffle chips and toasted almonds for texture and an amazingly delicious red pepper and apricot drizzle that made it difficult to stop eating.

Since Crooked Spoon is a food truck, Saelg took his inspiration from the Italian sausages with grilled onions and peppers that you find at traditional food trucks parked at carnivals and state fairs. Of course Saelg kicked it up to gourmet level presenting a deconstructed version. Roasted red peppers, purple onions and the grilled sausage were served with lightly toasted slices of French bread. His French fries tossed with rosemary and Pecorino Romano cheese for saltiness were an unexpected treat.

Two other judges and myself rated the dishes on flavor, originality and plating. When all scores were tallied, the winner was: Chef Alec Cheak of Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar. Congratulations to chef Alec.

Tags: chef Alec Cheaks | Crooked Spoon | Fleming's Steakhouse | orlando | Steve Saelg | top chefs | Whole Foods Market