Young Chefs Shine at the National Mall of Pickleball

Students from D.C. Bilingual Public Charter School and Baltimore Montessori Public Charter School took center stage at the National Mall of Pickleball, showcasing their budding culinary talents during the event’s “In the Kitchen” cooking segment. Part of Emeril’s Culinary Garden & Teaching Kitchen program, these young chefs impressed the crowd with their skills, creativity, and passion for food.

With guidance from Adam Howard, Michelin award-winning chef and D.C. Bilingual parent, and Carlos Raba, James Beard award-winning chef and Baltimore Montessori parent, the students had a unique opportunity to learn from culinary masters while preparing healthy dishes for the audience.

Students from Baltimore Montessori served a vibrant gazpacho, a dish inspired by Chef Emeril Lagasse and creatively modified with Chef Raba’s expertise. The young chefs gained firsthand experiences in how small adjustments can transform a classic recipe, fueling their confidence and creativity in the kitchen.

Meanwhile, students from D.C. Bilingual worked alongside Chef Howard to prepare Yummy Wake-Up Smoothies, adding fresh, seasonal ingredients to elevate this beloved breakfast favorite. Their enthusiasm and teamwork shone through as they delighted guests with their culinary creations.

“This was a lifelong memory that most adults don’t even get a chance to experience,”

said Megh Rennard, Executive Director of Baltimore Montessori Public Charter School. The event was both a showcase of talent and celebration of the transformative power of food education.

We are incredibly proud of these young chefs, whose participation highlights the values of Emeril’s Culinary Garden & Teaching Kitchen – fostering an appreciation for the source of food, developing life skills and confidence, promoting nutrition education, and building self-reliance through culinary skills.

A heartfelt thank you to our partners with the Humana Foundation for making this extraordinary experience possible. Be sure to check out the recipes for Gazpacho and Yummy Wake-Up Smoothies to bring the flavors of this special event to your own kitchen!