Sissy Biggers, the host, is a junior-size sparkplug who runs back and forth between the two chef stations asking nosy questions, commenting on the action and keeping up the pressure by ticking off the minutes on the clock.
Tom Jurgielewicz, one of four duck farmers left on the Island and an owner of the nation's second-largest duck farm, watched as the 240 participants, who paid $55 a piece for a duck-only tasting, lined up at the chef stations.
There are 15 chef stations that you can enjoy as you sip wine and cocktails poolside with a Hawaiian sunset behind you.
Along with 8 chef stations (312 Chicago, Dusek's, Embeya, Flemmings Prime Steakhouse, Nightwood, Schwa, Tuesday night Dinner, Vera) and almost as many mixology stations, there were also several bars and an ever-flowing Manhattan fountain.
Part competition, part nature walk and a treat for all five senses, renowned local chefs are stationed throughout the Ecology Center's beautiful, maze-like grounds offering their diverse, bite-size delicacies while diners vote (with mung beans) on their favorite dishes.
Punters sit on banquettes or on only semi-comfortable high stools, the latter with CCTV feeds of the chef's stations.
Set up the chef's stations.
But most gas station chefs are dreaming bigger, hoping to use the quirky locations to build their brands for franchising inside other gas stations or opening a flagship restaurant, sans gas pumps.
The suit, filed in Federal District Court, said that Sparks operated a tipping pool for employees who did not serve customers, like appetizer expediters, banquet and kitchen managers, dessert station chefs and wine cellar masters.
In separate stations, chefs prepare fresh cuts of veal, pork and beef.
