MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. -- Food service specialists battle it out for the title of top chef during a Chef of the Quarter competition at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Dec. 7, 2018. Each of the three competitors presented their own table set with decorations coinciding with their chosen upon theme. The contestants marched out before the panel of judges one at a time and presented an appetizer, main entrée, and dessert.
The judges, consisting for the first time of all non-commissioned officers, gave each participant their own opinion of what they liked and what they believe would make their food even better. U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Christopher Espinlomas won the judge’s votes and took first place with his Caribbean-themed meal. After the end of the judging, trophies were presented by the honorable Mr. Eddie Barber, mayor of Emerald Isle.
This competition helps shine a light upon the best chefs at Cherry Point. The winner of every quarter comes back to prove themselves again at the end of the year during Chef of the Year.