Best Teen Chef 2008 Local Finalists
Christopher Cooper
Frank H. Peterson Academy of Technology
The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of Jacksonville’s Best Teen Chef 2008
Christopher Cooper of Jacksonville, Florida discovered his love for the culinary arts when he was only 8 years old. “I come from a big family and we are very passionate about food,” said Cooper.
Inspired by both his grandmother and aunt, Christopher developed an appreciation for the culinary arts that motivated him to enter The Art Institute of Jacksonville’s Best Teen Chef Competition.
“I enjoy cooking because food is a universal language that always brings people together,” said Cooper.
Christopher enjoys experimenting with different types of cooking styles, including Italian and Asian. He often combines ordinary flavors to create results that are far from ordinary. “I just made a peanut butter barbeque sauce that was delicious,” said Cooper.
When the Frank H. Peterson Academy senior isn’t cooking up a storm in the kitchen, he is busy enjoying the outdoors. Christopher loves fishing and hunting. He also spends his time both working and volunteering at the local YMCA.
After completing his education at The Art Institute of Jacksonville, Christopher hopes to open his own multi-level restaurant. His open floor plans include a wine bar and bakery that he hopes will appeal to a large audience.