Before you can be famous, you need to be almost famous. The folks at S.Pellegrino understand this concept and are giving more than 60 culinary students the opportunity to claim their fame. In the 6th Annual S.Pellegrino Almost Famous Competition, students work their way to the finals by competing in regional contests. More than 30 top culinary schools in the US and Canada are participating and students will be given the opportunity to go head-to-head against each other in front of a panel of judges.

Once they've excelled in their region, they are able to proceed to the final event at the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone in Napa Valley. The event takes place March 7–10 and consists of three categories: Harvest Mystery Basket, Signature Dish, and People's Choice. This year the event will be hosted by Top Chef season-one-winner Harold Dieterle and Sopranos star Lorraine Bracco.

When asked about the competition Harold said:

"The restaurant industry has all the qualities of a real-life competition. Almost Famous sets up these young
chefs to feel comfortable and thrive in these high-pressure situations, which is why so many of the students leave the competition and go on to work for some of the best restaurants in the country."

This indeed may be true. Last year's winner, Ranbir Batra, was able to experience work opportunities he never would have had otherwise, including working alongside Sara Moulton. In addition to new culinary adventures, the overall winner will receive a $10,000 cash prize.

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