'Top Chef 'Contestant Visits San Antonio Sailors

NORFOLK (NNS) -- Former 'Top Chef' contestant, Otto Borsich, visited the amphibious transport dock USS San Antonio (LPD 17) June 25, giving the culinary specialists on board some tips to use when preparing meals for the crew.

Borsich, who has been cooking since he was a young boy, once served as a mess management specialist second class on the nuclear-powered fleet ballistic missile submarine USS Patrick Henry (SSBN 599).

"It was great to get back to the galley and offer the cooks some advice," said Borsich.

Borsich and the crew prepared dishes such as melon summer soup, homing black bean corn soup, salmon florentine and a number of other items.

"We are used to the 21-day cycle, so we prepare the same meal every 21 days," said Culinary Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Helen Speight. "So we were excited to get out there to learn and do something different for the crew."

For the special meal, Borsich taught the culinary specialists on board how to prepare some creative dishes using supplies they have on hand.

"You have to think outside the box," said Borsich. "There is no set rule for cooking; you just have to know what works well together."

Crew members were glad to see the 'Top Chef' contestant come on board and show his appreciation for the Sailors in this way.

"It was a great experience." said Damage Controlman 1st Class(SW) Kimeka Robinson. "I watch Top Chef and to see him in the kitchen first-hand, and learn from him was great. I am even having people over for Sunday dinner."

Borsich works as the chef instructor at the Culinary Institute of Las Vegas.

For more news from USS San Antonio, visit www.navy.mil/local/lpd17/.