Fayetteville chef ‘heads to victory’ in competition for $1million to build restaurant

Did a friend pass this on to you? Register here.

Hello foodies,

In October, chefs from across the country will compete to win $1 million to build the restaurant of their dreams in the town of Burlaw, Pender County.

Among the candidates is Peggy Walker, a caterer from Fayetteville.

Walker, 33, is one of 24 finalists in the Own Your Own restaurant competition taking part in the Town Square Cook-Off from noon to 4 p.m. on October 21 on West Courthouse Avenue in Burlaw, where each chef will serve a sample dish that represents his project. restaurant concept in front of a jury and 200 community members.

With a decade of experience as a freelance baker and chef, Walker said she specializes in soul food with a gourmet twist. She competes for the chance to build Anniegirl’s, a brunch restaurant that would bear her childhood nickname.

The 2,250-square-foot space on Courthouse Avenue would mix industrial and eclectic design elements for a whimsical, feminine feel, she said — think exposed brick walls with colorful lighting and furnishings.

Dishes like French toast stuffed with creme brulee, sweet potato soufflé and crab cakes, which are a nod to his hometown of Baltimore, Maryland, would adorn the menu, he said. she declared. Her specialty, however, is shrimp and grits, which she plans to serve in martini glasses while preparing.

Walker said she was ready to show her passion for food.

“I’m heading for victory,” she said. “I will make Fayetteville proud.”

Help pick the winner

Want to help decide which chef will open a restaurant in downtown Burgaw? You can enter the draw to become a judge in the Town Square Cook-Off at ownyourown.com/get-involved. The winners of the raffle will receive an email on October 2.

What happens after cooking?

The top 12 chefs in the competition will submit business plans. Eight of those candidates will work shifts at the judge’s restaurants.

Two finalists will advance to the final showdown, where each will prepare a three-course meal for the judges and 50 guests on October 29 at the Burlaw Rail Depot. That evening, the winner will be announced.

Enjoy your food,

taylor

Taylor Shook writes about food, dining and business for The Fayetteville Observer. She can be reached at tshook@gannett.com, on Twitteror Facebook.

This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: Fayetteville chef is competing for $1 million to build her dream restaurant.