The Mather culinary team of Executive chef Chip Fegert and sous chef Chivo Montero has only been on the job for a short time, but their food preparation expertise is already being recognized nationally. The cooking duo was crowned winner of the “Iron Chef” competition at the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (AAHSA) Chef Challenge 2009 that took place this week at Chicago’s McCormick Place.
“We are extremely proud of this honor because it exemplifies the high level of food quality and dining creativity that we offer every day to residents of The Mather,” said Mary Leary, president and CEO, Mather LifeWays. “Our culinary team was up against some very tough competition.”
Modeled after the Food Network’s “Iron Chef America,” the AAHSA Chef Challenge featured professional chefs from AAHSA member communities across the country, using a secret ingredient and racing against the clock to create the tastiest and most creative dishes as selected by a panel of judges representing a cross-section of senior living communities, older adults, and culinary experts. The entire event occurred on the exhibit hall floor, under the watchful eyes of not only the judges but also thousands of AAHSA
Annual Meeting attendees.
Executive chef Chip Fegert and sous chef Chivo Montero are part of the culinary team at The Mather.
“Taking top honors in the competition is a great tribute,” said Mr. Fegert. “We can’t wait to share the excitement, and some of the winning dishes, with residents of The Mather.”