Kurt Wait

1994 Grand Prize Winner

Sales compensation manager for a large telecommunications firm from Redwood City, California

Inspiration for Portobello Burgers:

"Napa Valley was the inspiration for my portobello burger. Local wine and cheese, fresh herbs and greens, beautiful scenery and weather- what could be more inspirational?"

Memories of BBB:

"I have quite a few fond memories of the contest. Meeting all the other contestants and guests was nice. The excellent dinner with the magician for entertainment was quite memorable, too. I also enjoyed meeting James McNair and all the friendly people from Sutter Home. My sister and I stayed in a little cottage inside a vineyard not far from town. That was very great. A tranquil setting with some nice wine and fruit. I couldn't have asked for more.

The thing I remember the most, however, was the relief I felt when I finished putting together my last burger just as the judges walked up to my station. For the last half hour or so I was certain that I would not finish in time. I've never worked so feverishly. All in all, it was great fun."

Other Notable Wins:

Grand Prize, Pillsbury Bake-Off, 1996