Most of you know that I was chosen as one of 4 finalists for the Gourmoo Cookoff last week. I was flown to LA to compete in a lactose free cook off and film 5 exciting episodes for
http://www.moovision.com/ At first, I was a little unsure going into the competition b/c one, this was my first cook off and two, I wasn't sure what my fellow finalists would be like. I mean we've all seen
Top Chef -was someone going to hide my pea puree or try to sabotage my dishes? Well, I lucked out-- this was an amazing experience. The other three finalists, Robert, Laurie, and Morena were so incredible. We're all true foodies and after cooking together all day we still went out together every night to explore Pasadena's excellent restaurant scene and enjoy food, wine, and great conversation! I was even lucky enough to finally meet my local cooking friend, Merry for dinner one night ~
Merry thank you for your support and friendship!~ The crew for the cook off was super supportive, especially the fabulous Anna & Gabe, and so laid back- I kept thinking
"is this what Hollywood's really like?!" No drama here! I am so very grateful for the amazing friends I made on this trip! Of course I'm sworn to secrecy until the episodes are released on
http://www.moovision.com/ in February but I promise you-
you don't want to miss it!
Happy Cooking! ~Nicole
Merry actually brought her own delicious appetizers to our hotel room! How amazing is she?
Drinks with Laurie and Merry~
You know me~ I love taking pictures of delicious & yummy dishes. Is your mouth watering yet?
Korean BBQ
Shopping in gorgeous Pasadena
All four of us- and our carts- fit in the elevator!
Am I the only one whose never seen an escalator for grocery carts?! Genius!
Laurie setting up in our kitchen!
Italian yumminess!
We HAVE to order dessert!
Me, Laurie, & Robert happy and relaxed after A LOT of amazing food and wine!
Dinner time again- this time Peruvian!
I cannot even tell you how yummy this was!
The world's best Flan!
Posing with our favorite director, Anna!
All four finalists with director Anna and judge Kristy!
Floating sushi
Two of my favorite things- Margaritas and Asian food!
Mine was called the Party Girl Roll- appropriately titled!
Why is he so happy?! B/c he finally got In & Out Burger!
Morena and her Animal Fries!
Love it!
Setting up my kitchen.
Merry visited us on set!
The judges: Chef Marlon, Kristy, and Chef LaLa.
