FNCE: Top Chef Edition

From 10/3-10/6, I went to my first ever conference in Nashville, TN. It was called FNCE which stands for Food and Nutrition Conference and Expo. Thousands of dietetic students, interns, and professionals gathered for educational sessions, food exhibitors, and some fun in Nashville. The conference was enjoyable, although I feel like I would get more out of it the further I advance in my career. Many educational sessions sounded intriguing, yet the sheer number of sessions was a little overwhelming. As I find a niche in my career, I'll be able to better decide which sessions would be most beneficial. My time spent in Nashville was enjoyable, but one thing made the trip worth it. I met Dale from Top Chef! 

He was working at the Arnold Bread exhibit at the conference, and I geeked out. Like I mentioned in my initial post, I love food. Because of this, I've watched my fair share of competitive cooking shows. Dale was on season 3 and season 8 of Top Chef. We chatted about his time on the show, how he almost won season 3, and who he stills talks to from the show. I was in foodie heaven. I haven't watched Top Chef too religiously for a few seasons, but to meet someone on one of the old school seasons was amazing. I wasn't lying to him when I said his Miami season was one of my favorites. We chatted for a bit (they were out of product at the moment..score!) and he recommended the restaurant he works at, Sinema. Some interns and I tried it out, and I have to admit it was excellent. We ordered a variety of appetizers and drinks, and everyone was pleased. I ordered a surf&turf bruschetta that featured crab meat and beef carpaccio. Everyone left happy and it was a good end to our Nashville trip.

I'd say my trip to FNCE was a success. If anything else, it made me reflect as to how I want to merge my culinary and nutrition interests in the future.