2026 CT ProStart Invitational Results!
The Connecticut Hospitality Educational Foundation (CHEF) is the non-profit 501(c)3, philanthropic arm of the Connecticut Restaurant & Hospitality Association (CRHA).
CHEF’s mission is to promote the health and prosperity of Connecticut’s hospitality industry through education, scholarships and financial assistance.
Enfield takes First, Wilbur Cross Second, Norwich Third in Culinary Competition
Wilbur Cross takes First, Enfield Second in Management Competition
The Connecticut Hospitality Educational Foundation (CHEF) and the Connecticut Restaurant & Hospitality Association (CRHA) hosted the 20th annual CT ProStart Invitational yesterday at Mohegan Sun.
Over 30 high school students in the ProStart Program took part in competitions showcasing their culinary, cake decorating and restaurant management skills, battling for scholarships, prizes or the chance to represent Connecticut at the National ProStart Invitational this April in Baltimore.
Culinary Competition
Enfield High School took home the Culinary trophy for the second year in a row! The culinary competition judges the students on their work skills, taste, menu, safety, sanitation & presentation.
Congratulations to Ela, Zach, Kyle, Colton & Ameyla!
Wilbur Cross High School took second place, followed by Norwich Free Academy in third place in the Culinary Competition.
Management Competition
Wilbur Cross High School, located in New Haven, retained the crown in the Management Competition! The team impressed the judges - a panel of industry professionals - with their restaurant concept proposal, presenting on menu development, restaurant design, marketing techniques and more.
Congratulations to Serena, Bryana, Vikram, Elijah and Jenna!
Enfield High School placed second in the Management Competition.
Both winning teams will now go on to compete at the National ProStart Invitational, April 24-26 in Baltimore, MD. Huge congratulations to the winners and to all who competed!
Cake Decorating Competition
Noorah of Simsbury High School won the first ever Connecticut ProStart Cake Decorating Competition!
The judges were impressed by her attention to detail, presentation, skill and use of color.
