Prospect's Chef de Cuisine Wins Food Network Competition

The Chef de Cuisine of one of Fort Greene's favorite restaurants has done it again: Prospect's Vinson Petrillo was named the victor Wednesday of round-two of 'Chopped Champions,' a Food Network show that pins previous seasons' winners against eachother to see just who is the best of the best. 

Petrillo faced off against fellow round-two champions Fatima Ali, Rachel Willen and Walter D'Rozario, having to cook up a meals using only the contents of mystery baskets supplied to them. He outlasted his competitors and after three rounds, was the last man standing. 

"I am finally starting to realize my abilities as a chef, and I guess I’m not that bad!," Petrillo told the Food Network. "I have so much self-doubt, and in my mind I was just not good enough to win. Winning my episode of Chopped Champions has definitely boosted my confidence for the finale, and I’m going in feeling pretty good."

When asked what he considered to be the most crucial part to competing on 'Chopped,' Petrillo said knowing what one is working with makes all the difference. "Definitely product knowledge, and I have the privilege to work with new ingredients every day," he told the Food Network. "You have to be open-minded and creative. I always have worked well under pressure; both are equally important for winning 'Chopped.'"

Located at 773 Fulton St., Prospect opened its doors in the fall of 2012. Known for its "new-American" cuisine, the Fort Greene staple also has some unique offerings, including its butchery class that was recently brought back to the restaurant.