| Montrio Bistro Chef Tony Baker Wins Produce Excellence Award |
| Baker recognized for his work with Ocean Mist Farms |
CASTROVILLE, Calif. - (April 23, 2008) - Tony Baker, executive chef and co-owner of Montrio Bistro in Monterey, Calif., will receive the first annual 2008 Produce Excellence in Foodservice Award from United Fresh Research & Education Foundation at its annual conference, United Fresh, May 5-7 in Las Vegas.
Baker is one of five outstanding chefs being recognized for the use of produce in the culinary arts. The five winners were selected from nearly 100 nominations submitted by produce companies and restaurants across the industry.
"We're delighted to honor individuals that are committed to incorporating fresh produce into menu offerings," said Tom Stenzel, president of United Fresh.
A panel of produce industry representatives selected the winners based on descriptions of how each nominee incorporated fresh produce into menu development as well as how well they created an overall positive dining experience featuring fresh produce.
Baker said, "At Montrio Bistro we work closely with farmers to get the very best of the season. Living and working on the Monterey Peninsula makes it easier; we are fortunate to have a plethora of farmers offering us their produce. I know our customers appreciate that."
The Montrio Bistro menu features locally grown produce such as Ocean Mist Farms artichokes. Baker has been working with Ocean Mist Farms on recipe development and other ideas for nine years.
As a winning chef, Baker will receive complimentary airfare, hotel accommodations and registration to the United Fresh show in Las Vegas Baker will receive his award at the Annual Awards Banquet Tuesday evening, May 6.
Baker will also participate in a convention education panel and share his views on produce trends in foodservice.
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