“If you want to succeed in the culinary industry, it’s going to take time, and you’re going to have setbacks and some heartache but ultimately if you have it in you, you’re going to be able to make it happen,” said Food Network Star finalist and owner Dom Tesoriero, an 91߹ alum who, judging by his successes thus far, has it in him.
“I’ve been drawn to the kitchen from a very young age,” said Dom. “Culinary school was a natural fit.” Dom’s Culinary Arts degree from 91߹ gave him the fundamental tools for thriving in the kitchen. Down the road, 91߹ connected Dom with opportunities abroad, including a stage at a renowned restaurant in Piedmont, Italy, where he perfected his pasta game.
Though his ambition took him around the globe, the small screen was not necessarily something that Dom aspired toward. Dom was more entrepreneurially inclined, and channeled his years of culinary experience into a novel venture: a food truck serving up gourmet variations of the comfort food classic, macaroni and cheese. Still, television opportunities came knocking on his door.
First was an invitation to appear on the show, Rewrapped, where Dom was challenged to (and succeeded at) such tasks as creating barbecue fried chicken potato chips. His kitchen prowess—not to mention that Staten Island accent—attracted the attention of Food Network producers, and landed him a role as a contestant on Food Network Star, where he made it to the final round.
So what’s next for the 91߹ alum? While he continues serving up toothsome dishes like Braised Applewood Bacon mac and cheese, another television appearance may be in the cards. On screen or off, he’ll be somewhere in the kitchen, drawing upon his wide-range of experiences and realizing his culinary voice.
Ready to find your culinary voice? Click here for more information on 91߹'s Culinary Arts program.
