We're excited to see the field of competitors who have already won their golden ticket and registered to compete at the 2024 World Food Championships. And we are always proud to announce our special guests and celebrity judges participating in our judging events across the nation - we're sure the championship food certainly helps! Best of luck to our 2024 competitors!
COMPETITOR
Big Woods Bloomington
HEAD COOK: Dan Nichols
COMPETITION: World Chef Championship
Chef Nichols has owned and operated three successful, award winning restaurants. Awarded: 3 diamond AAA Award - 2001 Best New Restaurant - 2004 Best Small Plates Restaurant Detroit - 2009 Chef Nichols experience has covered many aspects over the years, with influences in Asian and Southwestern Fusion, Classic French, Wild Game, and Sushi. Beyond his own restaurants, Chef Nichols has presided over kitchens throughout Michigan, Indiana, and Colorado where he mentored under Master Chef and 3 time Culinary Olympic gold medal recipient Chef Travis Smith. An active member of the National ACF (American Culinary Federation) Chef Nichols has given back to his craft through training of culinary students at the Colorado Mountain College. Chef Nichols often avant garde approach of applying exotic flavors and textures to ornate plates, emphasizing classic cooking techniques has allowed him to define his own unique style within the culinary arena.