COMPETITOR

Rusty's Bistro

HEAD COOK: Christopher Frakes

COMPETITION: World Chef Championship

I started working as a dishwasher when I was 15 and had to get a job to support myself. With few prospects and an inquisitive nature, the chefs took pity on me and showed me how to cook. This simple act of kindness forever changed the trajectory of my life. A few years later I had the opportunity to move from St. Petersburg, Florida to New York City with my future wife. I brought my culinary skills with me. I was able to find work and an amazing mentor in Hubert Wormstall. He refined my skills and demanded my best. I owe him a great debt. After working with Hubert I expanded my culinary range working at Mercer Kitchen, Bao 111, The Orchard and EU. After our time in NYC we returned to sunny Florida and I spent a few years working in Miami before returning to my hometown where I am Chef De Cuisine of Rusty's Bistro at the Sand Key Sheraton Resort, and Dad to my two beautiful daughters Zoee and Paisley. The kitchen has made me the man that I am today and has given me so many opportunities to expand my world. I am overjoyed to be able to join this competition to honor my mentors, my family and the industry that has given me so much.