The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of Portland

In April, high school seniors from across the U.S. and Canada competed in Best Teen Chef Local Cook-off Competitions at participating International Culinary Schools at The Art Institutes locations throughout North America including The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of Portland.

Beating out four competitors, Genaro Vargas has been named The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of Portland’s Best Teen Chef for 2010.

The Art Institutes created the Best Teen Chef competition in 2000 to encourage and recognize young culinary talent. According to Chef Ken Rubin, Culinary Director, "The Best Teen Chef competition sets the stage for aspiring culinary professionals to show their passion and commitment for the culinary industry. I want to thank all of the contestants for their outstanding ability to work under pressure and produce deliciously crafted food. We stand ready to provide an outstanding educational experience that will serve them as their career flourishes".

See a full gallery of photos from this years' competition on Flickr HERE