Emily Brubaker Wins $250,000 on ‘Yes, Chef!’

News Summary

San Diego chef Emily Brubaker impressed judges with her innovative culinary creations in NBC’s series ‘Yes, Chef!’, winning the grand prize of $250,000. The finale attracted over 15 million viewers as Brubaker showcased her skill with a stunning three-course meal, earning accolades from a panel that included culinary icons like Martha Stewart and José Andrés. As the Resort Executive Chef at Omni La Costa Resort and Spa, Brubaker’s dedication to personal growth and high-quality cuisine shines through. To celebrate her victory, the resort is hosting a special dinner in her honor.

San Diego chef Emily Brubaker has captured the spotlight after winning the grand prize of $250,000 on NBC’s new culinary competition series “Yes, Chef!”. The exciting finale aired on June 30, attracting an impressive viewership of over 15 million people. Brubaker showcased her culinary skills in a three-course meal that wowed the judges, ultimately leading her to victory.

As the Resort Executive Chef at the Omni La Costa Resort and Spa in Carlsbad, Brubaker prepared an exquisite winning meal that began with scallop crudo accompanied by poached daikon and caviar. For her main course, she presented an American wagyu New York strip paired with a potato pavé in tarragon demi-glace. The dessert, a bread pudding topped with foie gras and served with honey gastrique and candied hazelnuts, particularly impressed the judges for its innovative flavor combinations.

The panel of judges included renowned culinary figures such as Martha Stewart, José Andrés, Marcus Samuelsson, Gail Simmons, and Andrew Zimmern. During the competition, Brubaker demonstrated a significant evolution in her confidence and kitchen attitude, with her husband Jake, also a professional chef, serving as her Sous Chef during the final challenge. Jake, known for his work at the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club and as a former executive chef of the Las Vegas Raiders, initially nominated Brubaker for the show, highlighting her unwavering dedication and potential for growth.

As she received accolades from revered judges, Brubaker expressed that their recognition has had a profound impact on her career trajectory. She emphasized the importance of not only being a great chef but also a good person, sharing her journey with pride and gratitude for her family’s support throughout the competition. Her experience on “Yes, Chef!” has been identified as a life-changing opportunity, particularly in terms of mental wellness and personal growth for chefs.

Brubaker brings an impressive culinary history to the table, having nearly two decades of experience in the industry. Her background encompasses stints in prestigious kitchens, including the three Michelin-star restaurant Joël Robuchon in Las Vegas and Fleur de Lys. At Omni La Costa Resort and Spa, she oversees eight restaurant outlets, emphasizing her commitment to high-quality ingredients and exceptional dish creation.

In celebration of her success, Omni La Costa Resort plans to host a special dinner featuring Brubaker on July 11 from 6 to 8 p.m. This event will be part of a larger celebration for the “Yes, Chef!” series, known as the 60 Years of La Costa event, which runs from July 11 to 13. The expansive lineup includes a Throwback TV Night, Splashback Retro Pool Party, Casino La Costa, and a Golf tournament, offering attendees a chance to engage with the resort’s rich history.

Emily Brubaker’s remarkable journey throughout the competition reflects not only her culinary talent but her dedication to personal growth and resilience in the face of challenges. As she continues to thrive in her role at the resort, her win serves as a testament to the impact of hard work, creativity, and community support in the culinary world.

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Additional Resources

• San Diego Magazine: Emily Brubaker Wins Yes Chef!
• Patch: Martha Stewart Awards San Diego Resort Chef Winner
• NBC San Diego: Yes Chef Winner Emily Brubaker Reveals How She Cooked Out the Competition
• San Diego Magazine: San Diego Restaurants Near Downtown
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Emily Brubaker