David Benstock, Executive Chef and Owner of IL Ritorno and St. Pete Meat & Provisions, both in Downtown St. Petersburg, will competed on Food Network’s hit series Beat Bobby Flay on May 20 in an episode titled “Mission: Impastable.” Not only did Benstock compete on the show, but he won with his signature Mezzaluna.

A group of supporters gathered at IL Ritorno to show their love and appreciation for the chef, and to wait on bated breath as they waited for the episode to conclude. Congrats, David Benstock!

Chef David Benstock’s culinary prowess is nearly unmatched. The legions of satiated customers from around the Tampa Bay region can attest to the chef’s meticulous attention to detail, and unyielding passion for the food that comes from his kitchen. The local chef will now put his skills to the test on the grand Food Network stage. Let’s hope Benstock puts St. Pete on the culinary map. 

David Benstock arrives on The Food Network

“Almost two years have passed since the filming of my episode and a year has come and gone since the restaurant industry was turned upside down during the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Benstock. “This is a major moment in my culinary career, and I couldn’t be any more excited to share it with the St. Petersburg community as restaurant owners continue to get back on their feet.”

The episode was originally filmed in October 2019, and the airing of Benstock’s culinary competition has been kept secret.

Benstock went head-to-head with Chef, Food Stylist and Cookbook Author Nicole Karr. The judging panel, composed of Bobby’s close friends and colleagues, deliberated and determined that Benstock would face Bobby Flay in the final round. =

St. Pete Meat & Provisions expands

Benstock is excited to add this Food Network appearance to his resume as the accolades are abundant for this young chef. “It wasn’t long ago that I was asked to cook at the James Beard House in New York City,” says Benstock. “To be a part of these prestigious organizations at this stage in my career is an absolute honor.”

Benstock can now tell the world, “I beat Bobby Flay”

For those who haven’t heard, St. Pete Meat & Provisions will expand into the former Greenstock space on the 400 Block of Central Avenue. Follow St. Pete Meat & Provisions on Facebook for the latest updates on expansion news.

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