Restaurant owner Ryan Margolis has a family member who knows a casting director at the Food Network. After scoping out the young, hip vibe of 707, the Food Network picked the restaurant for its Philly open casting call - welcoming pros and amateurs alike.
Denise Fike, an avid cook with no expert training, decided to audition for the show after a little encouragement from her family.
"I was told by my family that I'd be a fool if I didn't audition," Fike said.
She teaches fashion design at Drexel University and Moore College of Art & Designand learned to cook from her mother, who was born in Rome. Fike specializes in Northern Italian cuisine, and has a knack for baking. She bakes biscotti for Di Bruno Bros., at 1730 Chestnut St.
Fike passed her mother's recipes on to her two sons, and shares her traditional yet innovative culinary flair by hosting house parties.
"I have about 10 parties a year," she said. "And food is essential."
Many of the participants were self-taught, including David Prince, a doctor of cardiac rehab at Montefiore Medical Center in New York City.
"That's why I'm into heart-healthy eating," said Prince, who incorporates fruits and vegetables into his creations, rather than serving them as side dishes.
He learned to cook in medical school and by watching the Food Network.
His edge over other contestants? "I think that people are really into healthy eating, but it has to taste good."
If chosen for the show, he'll put his stethoscope to rest.
"I'll have to take some time off, but the hospital is really understanding," Prince said.
If he doesn't get the nod? "I have to be at work tomorrow."
Others came to the audition a little more seasoned.
