The Mietus Touch

Mietus vs. Van Wagner
Box Score 

A single vote separated Brian Mietus from Krista Van Wagner in the first round of action at Nickel City Chef held yesterday at Artisan Kitchen Stadium. The two veteran chefs dueled for sixty minutes to a packed house in this inaugural event, who’s featured ingredient – fresh eggs – provided a deceptively intriguing glimpse into each chef’s culinary zeitgeist.

When the final tally was announced, Mietus scored a narrow victory over Van Wagner, and in a scene befitting of Father’s Day, was greeted by his year-old son Zachary on stage for a victory celebration.

Legendary Hollywood movie producer Robert Evans could not have orchestrated a better climax, as little Zachary embraced his father and clapped as they announced the results – The kid stays in the picture!

Brian and Zachary Mietus

In a format rooted in cable television lore, hosts Bert Gambini and Chef Mike Andrezjewski welcomed the overflow crowd to the competition.

Van Wagner and Sous Chef Richard Oparka plated a three course tasting emblematic of the hot and sweet nuances that have raised the rafters at Curly’s Restaurant for over thirty years.

Mietus sent the judges a brash play on diner classics such as Steak and Eggs, Tuna Salad and that All American dish – Foie Gras and Eggs – conjuring a whimsical ode to his childhood experiences at his parents restaurant Curt’s Stop In.

 
Krista Van Wagner and Rich Obarka

The only thing brighter than the lights at Artisan Stadium was Van Wagner’s 50,000-watt smile, which shone throughout the contest. Her demeanor during the pressure-filled event revealed an under appreciated trait among chefs – the professional imperative to remain gracious. Mietus exuded the same sense of self-confidence and openness, but in a different way. His movement was restrained and concise, and his immaculate mis-en-place underscored a true chef’s command of space.

When the final plates were cleared from the judges’ stand, the competitors embraced and toasted with beer. The hoist of the beer bottle normally marks the end of a chaotic dinner service at a restaurant. What a strange feeling it must have been for Van Wagner and Mietus. After so many shifts and so many hours practiced in their craft, they still had another Final Exam.

At least now they could drink that beer with pride knowing they had both past with flying colors.