HHS Healthcare chefs from around the country gathered to compete and showcase their skills
(Grand Rapids, MI) – The talented HHS culinary staff took cooking to new heights at HHS’s 2025 SuperChef Showdown. Passion and creativity soared as nine of HHS’s most talented healthcare chefs faced off in this two-day culinary battle held at Gordon Food Service Store.
Competitors, representing hospitals from across the U.S., showcased HHS’ culinary excellence that has transformed hospitality and healthcare dining.
“The SuperChef event was pure energy and passion—a true reflection of our culinary roots,” said Amanda May-Smith, HHS President of Culinary and Nutrition Services. “It was amazing to see such creativity from every corner of our organization, regardless of title or background. Food has a way of bringing people together—and this event reminded us just how powerful that connection can be.”
Each competitor leveraged their unique background to bring their own flair to their dishes, but only one walked away with the $5,000 grand prize and the title of SuperChef Champion.
This year’s competitors included:
John Tutson, Sous Chef – St. Mary’s Hospital of Richmond
Crystal Morris, Culinary Production – St. Mary’s Hospital of Richmond
Marcus Hartford, Sous Chef – St. Anne Hospital
Devin Walker, Executive Chef – St. Elizabeth Boardman Hospital
Blake Eckenrod, Regional Executive Chef – Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center
Cody Tregre, Culinary Director – Baton Rouge General Medical
Keelan Burke, Culinary Director – Magnolia Regional Medical Center
Brittany Schneider, Culinary Director – Andalusia Health
Sharon Farmer, Culinary Production – Wilson Medical Center
After several rounds of competition, the top three chefs advanced to an intense final showdown, where they were tasked with crafting an entrée and appetizer using locally sourced proteins and a mystery basket of ingredients. Each chef had just two and a half hours to impress the panel of judges.
Blake Eckenod sealed the win with a standout menu featuring a gochujang & sesame grilled pork tenderloin served over a brûléed sweet potato with spicy pickled cabbage and a trio of sauces, along with an appetizer of tuna tataki with a creamy sweet chili sauce.
“This was my first SuperChef event, and it exceeded every expectation,” said Eckenrod, 2025 SuperChef Showdown Champion. “The atmosphere was electric. There was camaraderie amongst the chefs, but also a strong sense of competition, as we all wanted to win… The energy of those two days would be difficult to replicate, and it made the experience truly special.”
This event wouldn’t have been possible without the help of our proud sponsors: Gordon Food Service, Spiceology, Libbey Plates, Culinary Digital, Nestle Professional Solutions, Image Solutions, and City Baking.
About HHS Healthcare: HHS Healthcare specializes in high-quality support services, including environmental services, culinary & nutrition services, patient flow, facilities management, linen & laundry, and more. With decades of experience, HHS Healthcare delivers hospitality-driven services dedicated to improving the patient experience and overall facility operations.