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October 6, 2008
Chef Michael McMillan Announces First Coast Culinary Arts Scholarship
St. Augustine, Fla. – Michael McMillan, executive chef at award winning restaurants Opus39 and The Tasting Room, today announced the 2009 Aspiring Chefs Competition with the winner receiving a $3,000 scholarship to continue their studies at an accredited culinary arts school.
“It’s about giving back to the community in a way that will also benefit my chosen profession. I believe there is a lot of raw, culinary talent here in Northeast Florida that will rise to the surface during the competition,” McMillan said.
The announcement was made during a VIP reception and press preview of the newly remodeled Opus39.
Aspiring chefs in St. Johns, Duval, Nassau, Clay, Putnam, Bradford and Baker Counties will be eligible to compete for the inaugural scholarship beginning in January 2009. More information, rules and downloadable entry forms will be available on www.opus39.com beginning Nov. 1.
A graduate of the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, McMillan has worked at Trois Jean in New York City under Master Chef of France, Jean Louis Dumonnet; and in Dallas with nationally acclaimed Chef Dean Fearing at the Mobil 5 Star/AAA 5 Diamond restaurant and hotel, The Mansion on Turtle Creek.
The two restaurants, Opus39 and The Tasting Room are located in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district and winners of the prestigious 2008 Wine Spectator’s Award for Excellence. The magazine’s award recognizes the restaurants’ spectacular array of wines.
Also voted 2008 "Best of St. Augustine" sponsored by the St. Augustine Record, McMillan was awarded second place in the top chef division and first for their wine list.
Opus39 at 39 Cordova St. is one of Florida’s finest American Contemporary restaurants, now serving dinner Monday through Saturday, 5 – 9 p.m. Call (904) 824-0402. Visit www.Opus39.com.
The Tasting Room provides a delicious and festive beyond Tapas experience with a delectable menu at 25 Cuna Street. Now serving lunch Tuesday through Friday, 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. and dinner Monday through Saturday 5 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. Call (904) 810-2400. Visit www.TheTastingRoomFL.com.
