New Orleans, LA – Celebrated for its rich French and Spanish culinary heritage, New Orleans continues to be a premier destination for food enthusiasts. This vibrant city, known for its unique cultural history and diverse cuisine, will host the Bocuse D’or Americas and other prestigious culinary competitions from June 11th to 13th, 2024.
The New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center will be the venue for these highly anticipated events, showcasing the talents of the best pastry chefs and cooks from across the Americas. This event promises to highlight the extraordinary culinary artistry and innovation that defines the region’s culinary scene.
Nola Tribune is proud to announce that it will syndicate the live broadcast of the Bocuse D’or Americas competition, bringing this prestigious event to viewers everywhere. The live broadcast will capture every moment, from the intense preparations to the final presentations, providing an unparalleled glimpse into the world of elite culinary competition.
Team USA 2025 National Selection Winners
The Team USA 2025 National Selection was held in September 2023 at The Culinary Institute of America at Copia campus in Napa, California. Chef Stefani De Palma and Commis Bradley Waddle emerged victorious, securing their place to represent the United States at the 2024 Bocuse D’Or Americas competition in New Orleans.
About Head Chef Stefani De Palma:
Originally from Arcadia, California, Chef Stefani De Palma attended Le Cordon Bleu in Pasadena, CA. Following a three-month internship in Italy, she moved to San Diego in 2007. Initially applying for a pastry position at Addison, De Palma joined the team in 2008. Over the years, she diligently worked her way up through Addison’s kitchen, ascending from chef de partie, chef tournant, and pastry sous chef to sous chef. In 2016, at just 27 years old, she became Chef de Cuisine, working closely with Chef William Bradley over the next six years to further Addison’s culinary evolution. Stefani played an integral role in helping Addison achieve its third Michelin star recognition in 2022, a milestone she considers her most meaningful accomplishment.
In 2017, De Palma was named one of Zagat’s “30 Under 30 Culinary Game-Changers” and was nominated as an Eater Young Gun Semifinalist. Throughout her 15-year tenure at Addison, she had numerous opportunities to work alongside Ment’or to support Team USA and to participate in events celebrating Addison’s achievements for Forbes, Relais & Chateaux, and the Michelin Guide.
About Commis Bradley Waddle:
Bradley Waddle, a 21-year-old chef from Redding, California, developed his passion for cooking at a young age, fascinated by cooking shows and helping his parents in the kitchen. By 16, he started working in small restaurants around his hometown, eventually landing his first kitchen job at 17. Bradley spent his free time studying the works of renowned chefs, setting his goal to eventually open his own restaurant.
In 2021, Bradley moved to Napa, CA, to work for Chef Thomas Keller, one of his culinary idols. Starting as a kitchen porter, his ambition and talent quickly earned him a position as Chef de Partie. In 2022, he moved to England to work under two-Michelin-starred chef Michael Caines, further advancing his culinary skills. Bradley traveled across England and France, culminating in a visit to Lyon to watch the Bocuse d’Or finals in early 2023. He says, “I am looking forward to competing in the Bocuse d’Or, pushing myself and my abilities and have high hopes for Team USA getting to the podium in 2025!”
Live Coverage Stream:
For more information about the event and the live broadcast, please visit www.nolatribune.com/bocuse
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