Ment’or KICKS OFF SEARCH FOR 2017 BOCUSE D’OR TEAM USA

ON THE HEELS OF A SILVER STATUE WIN, APPLICATION PROCESS OPENS TO CHEFS FOR THE OPPORTUNITY OF A LIFETIME

June 25, 2015 (New York, NY) – Today, the ment’or BKB Foundation kicks off their search for the American chef who will represent the United States at the Bocuse d’Or culinary competition in 2017.  In January 2015, Team USA led by Chef Philip Tessier and Commis Skylar Stover stepped on the podium in Lyon and held the Silver Bocuse, proudly earning the recognition and respect of the international culinary community.  The platform of support has never been stronger for American restaurants, chefs and commis with the interest, tenacity and dedication to pursue The Bocuse d’Or.  Chefs that are American citizens, at least 23-years or older by the date of competition (January 2017) and have at least five-years fine dining experience are encouraged to apply.

“Paul Bocuse’s dream was realized when Team USA won the silver statue at the 2015 Bocuse d’Or,” said Chef Thomas Keller, President,  ment’or BKB Foundation.  “This competition has made an immense impact on young American chefs and the profession as a whole and we look forward to continuing to support Chef Bocuse’s dreams.”

“I used to know the Bocuse d’Or as an incredibly intense culinary competition,” said Philip Tessier, Chef and Silver Statue Winner, Bocuse d’Or Team USA 2015.  “But today, I know it as an incomparable journey of risk and reward, discovery and determination. This journey is truly a once in a lifetime experience available to those committed to our craft and the pursuit of excellence.”

The selected Chef and Commis will begin training in January 2016 leading up to the competition in January 2017.  Team USA Head Coach will be Chef Philip Tessier supported by ment’or Board of Directors Chefs Thomas Keller, Daniel Boulud and Jérôme Bocuse.  During the intensive training period, Team USA Head Chef and Commis will be compensated for their time and any relocation costs to move closer to the training facility in Northern California.

For more details and to download an application please visit www.mentorbkb.org.