The Next Food Network Star – Seeing Myself On-Air
After counting down to the premiere episode of The Next Food Network Star for months, it was crazy to finally watch the episode with family and friends (who I made be silent during the episode so I didn’t miss anything!)
As you saw during last night’s episode, I volunteered to be my team’s captain for the first challenge, catering Food Network’s Sweet 16 Party.
Having worked at Doral Arrowwood for 11 years, where I have catered events for as many as 500 attendees, I felt confident that it was a good opportunity to step-up as a leader.
It was strange though to be part of a team challenge with chefs that I didn’t know very well.
In a situation like that, you just have to assume everyone will deliver what they promise.
Watching the challenge back on-air, it seemed so much shorter than it really was. I wish viewers could see everything that happens during a challenge to understand how demanding it is.
As I watched my preparation of a Roasted Filet Mignon with Red Wine Mushroom Sauce and a Butternut Squash Soup during last night’s episode, I was pleased to hear Bobby Flay recognize that I had the most energy in the kitchen.
I am very high energy in the kitchen, and in everyday life, so I was glad to see that come across in-person and on-camera. I did, however, notice how much my energy was lacking from the presentation of my dish to the judges and other leading Food Network personalities.
A lot of people asked me why this was, and the answer is simple – nerves!
It is wild to think about how nervous I was during the challenge, the judging and the elimination. When I was standing in the elimination room, all I could think was that I was going home. Particularly after the judges commented that my filet had an overbearing red wine flavor.
Everybody’s tastes are different, but that was really hard to hear about my food.
I was so relieved when the judges said I was safe, but knew there were many more challenges ahead.
To see my performance in the second challenge, tune-in to Food Network, Sunday, June 14th at 9 p.m. and check Small Bites each Monday to see my reaction to each episode!
— Brett August
chefbrettaugust.com
