March 18, 2006

Never Say Never!

Chef Matrell had the opportunity to not only meet, but cook with celebrity Chef Michael Chiarello host of the Food Network show Easy Entertaining with Michael Chiarello, Napa Style on Fine Living, and Michael Chiarello's Napa: Casual Cooking on PBS.

"Cooking with Chef Michael Chiarello was an opportunity of a lifetime. I have often joked about meeting celebrity chefs, having my own cooking show, and appearing on Oprah one day," explained Chef Matrell. "I never thought any one of those things would happen for me this early in my career. I have to tell you, I was like a kid in the candy store, I was star struck, and just unbelievably excited to meet this man. He is now officially my favorite celebrity chef!

Working with him was an unbelievable experience. He was very knowledgable, technically proficient, friendly, and just a joy to to work with. He made me feel very comfortable sharing the kitchen with him."

Specialties Gourmet was contacted to provide assistance to Chef Chiarello due to referrals. The company was selected after an extensive interview with the PR firm and after Chef Matrell spoke with Chef Chiarello on the phone. Specialties Gourmet is now listed as a resource with the PR firm for future events in Florida.

Chef Chiarello presented Chef Matrell with one of the event menus that he signed as follows: "Matrell, What an honor to share the kitchen with you! You are the best! Michael Chiarello 3/18/06. The menu is now in a frame on the wall of the Specialties Gourmet office. "I will cherish it forever," said Chef Matrell.

If you did not get a chance to read the story in the Democrat about the event, click here.