2014 Macy's Sizzle Showdown
Prelims in WA
In June 2014, YouTube cooking personality Jack Scalfani participated as a semi-finalist in the Macy’s Culinary Council "Great American Grilling Guru" regional competition, held at the Alderwood Macy’s in Lynnwood, Washington. Hosted by celebrity chef Tom Douglas, the live cooking challenge pitted three contestants against each other to prepare their signature dishes within one hour, vying for a spot at the "Sizzle Showdown Finale" in New York City. Representing California, Scalfani grilled his signature "Mama's Best Beef Short Ribs," ultimately placing second in a close finish behind regional winner Edwina Gadsby.[1][2]
Main Event in NY
In a stroke of good luck, winner of the Lynwood event Edwina Gadsby was unable or declined to attend the finals event, and Jack as the runner-up was invited instead.
Jack Scalfani traveled to New York City to compete in the Macy's Culinary Council "Great American Grilling Guru" national finale—the Sizzle Showdown—held at Macy's Herald Square on June 28, 2014. This lead to a series of smug videos from Jack, where he feels he is a celebrity finally getting his due.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CUh4eYnme10
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ghdm3zT9n8
Jack yet again grilled his signature "Mama's Best Beef Short Ribs," this time to impress celebrity judges pastry chef Johnny Iuzzini and celebrity chef Todd English.
Scalfani's appearance in the corporate showcase garnered little mainstream culinary credibility outside of Macy's publicity materials and Scalfani's self-uploaded YouTube video logs.
Event Photos
The press photography (featured on gettyimages) features PR phoros showing Scalfani smiling at branded grill setups, posing awkwardly beside celebrity judges, and hamming it up for promotional shots.
https://www.gettyimages.com/search/2/image?family=editorial&events=499707043&sort=mostpopular