2018 Plate It Like You Mean It Contest Winners

Out of all who participated in the “Plate It Like You Mean It” Contest, where Oneida Foodservice gave amazing support and prize packages, it boiled down to one grand prize winner, two runners up, and a voters choice award winner.

Without further ado, we bring the winners of the “Plate It Like You Mean It” Contest.

Grand Prize Winner: Jenna & Joseph Cuccia

The brother and sister duo own and operate 17 Summer Restaurant in Lodi, New Jersey. At one of the oldest buildings in Lodi, the two originally opened Joseph Cuccia Catering in 2012 and hosted countless Chef Tables, prepared for large catered events, and put private dining on the map in Lodi. In 2015, they opened 17 Summer Restaurant exactly where they started.

The reason for entering the contest was due to them “constantly looking to elevate the dining experience at 17 Summer Restaurant.” And without having investors they “tended to be incredibly frugal, and tableware reflects that.”

With the support of Oneida Foodservice, the duo see’s winning as “an incredible opportunity to be able to tell our story in an elegant and new way.”

Jenna & Joseph Cuccia Entry: Foie Gras Torchon, Brioche, and Cherry

First Runner Up: Ryne Harwick

As the Executive Chef of Hunt Club Steakhouse, a fine dining restaurant in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin with plenty of accolades, Ryne Harwick entered the competition to “upgrade the kitchen and give the staff some fun equipment to work with.” Ryne also felt it would “spark some inspiration for more fun food.” With his beautifully plated Ahi below, he no doubt earned his spot on the podium.

Ryne’s Entry: Lightly Seared Ahi w/Fried Rice & Stir Fry Spring Vegetables w/Wasabi Emulsion & Orange and Soy Glaze

Second Runner Up: Ron Letwinski

As the Chef de Cuisine of Meadowbrook Country Club in Farmington Hills, Michigan, Ron Letwinski is currently working on bringing his own concept to life. Ron’s restaurant is poised to give opportunities to special needs individuals who find difficulties in securing employment. With his prize package from Oneida, he’ll be able to take some of the funds slotted for dinnerware and plans to use the money toward his future employees. The story alone makes Ron worthy of his spot on the podium.

Ron’s Entry: Ahi Tuna Salad

Voters Choice Award: Barbara Pollastrini

Based out of Los Angeles, California, Barbara Pollastrini is the owner of Kitchen 90210. She believes, “A great meal is like a work of art. It should be pleasing to the eye, as well as the nose and palate.” With the anticipation of her upcoming restaurant Heroic in 2018, Barbara will now have a little financial relief from Oneida by way of the Voters Choice Award Prize Package – and she couldn’t be more thrilled!

Barbara’s Entry: Tuna Tartare