Executive Chef Ariel Fox of DOS CAMINOS Wins Big in the Final of Hell's Kitchen on FOX

On Friday, February 8, Ariel Fox, Concept Executive Chef of New York City's popular Mexican eatery Dos Caminos, was announced as the winner of the 18th season of the reality chef competition series "Hell's Kitchen." Broadwayworld attended the exciting screening of the two-hour show at Dos Caminos on Park Avenue at 27th Street. Guests were treated to artisanal cocktails and some of Chef Fox's special menu items as they watched the captivating program on wide-screen monitors.

FOX TV's hit show with celebrity chef and host, Gordon Ramsay had gathered 16 top chefs, a combination of 8 rookies and 8 veterans from different seasons, from around the country to put their culinary skills to the test. Throughout the entire season, Ariel was the first contestant to receive her black jacket and was never up for elimination. Ariel was crowned winner with her Mexican inspired menu that showcased her culinary talent, creativity, and leadership skills.

The final episode of of Hell's Kitchen, Season 18 was between Ariel and a very talented personal chef, Mia Castro from Miami Beach. Both chefs had sixty minutes to prepare five dishes and at one point their scores were tied. Ariel and Mia proved to be great competitors. At one point in the show, Ariel called Mia "fierce competition."

We had the chance to chat with Ariel and ask her a few questions about being a part of such a renowned culinary competition.

We wanted to know what personal qualities she feels have contributed to her success. "I've been thinking a lot about that question. I am doing things I've never done, going out on a limb. I don't shy away from the unfamiliar. When I embrace the unfamiliar it puts me in a weird place of zen. I know now not to always play it safe."

Ariel gave some great advice for other people who compete in cooking and baking competitions. "My advice is to always have a little bit of a plan before you go in. For instance, think casserole or chutney." Ariel told us that she is definitely in favor of a "game plan."

Ariel commented, "This season had some of the most talented chefs in the country and I am extremely honored to be crowned the winner of "Hell's Kitchen" by such a world-renowned chef and mentor in Gordon Ramsay," stated Fox. "I am thrilled to return to New York City and Dos Caminos to bring new knowledge and dishes to the ever-evolving menu."

"I knew she was going to win," said Tilman Fertitta, Chairman, CEO, and sole owner of Landry's Inc., Golden Nugget Casinos and the Houston Rockets. "She has been recognized as one of North America's most talented chefs and I'm proud that her hard work has paid off."

"Being the winner of HELL'S KITCHEN is an incredible achievement," stated Keith Beitler, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Landry's. "Ariel exemplifies everything an executive chef should be and I know our Dos Caminos patrons agree she is most-deserving of this recognition."

Chef Ariel Bio

Chef Ariel started her journey in Santa Cruz, California, the birthplace of sustainable slow food. As a teenager, she worked part-time for a small organic farm in Watsonville where she developed her passion for "farm to table" cuisine. She spent the first nine years of her professional career in Los Angeles before moving to New York City and finding her way to Dos Caminos. Continuing in her roots, she is a sustainable food movement devotee who produces simple and seasonal cooking that focuses on fresh ingredients from local farmers. As Dos Caminos Concept Executive Chef, Ariel is responsible for overseeing all culinary and financial operations, including menu development and ensuring all kitchens at all Dos Caminos locations are running up to standards.

For more information about Dos Caminos and their locations in New York City, please visit: https://www.doscaminos.com/.

ABOUT LANDRY'S, INC.

Landry's, Inc., wholly owned by Tilman J. Fertitta, is a multinational, diversified restaurant, hospitality, gaming and entertainment company based in Houston, Texas. The company operates more than 600 high-end and casual dining establishments around the world, including well-known concepts such as Landry's Seafood, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., Rainforest Cafe, Mitchell's Fish Market Restaurants, Morton's The Steakhouse, The Oceanaire, McCormick & Schmick's Seafood, Chart House, Saltgrass Steak House, Claim Jumper and Mastro's Restaurants. Landry's also operates a group of signature restaurants, including Vic & Anthony's, Grotto, Willie G's and others; along with popular New York BR Guest Restaurants such as Dos Caminos, Strip House and Bill's Bar & Burger. Landry's gaming division includes the renowned Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino concept, with locations in Las Vegas and Laughlin, Nev.; Atlantic City, N.J.; Biloxi, Miss.; and Lake Charles, La. Landry's entertainment and hospitality divisions encompass popular destinations including the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, Kemah Boardwalk, Aquarium Restaurants and other exciting attractions, coupled with deluxe accommodations throughout the Houston and Galveston area, including the luxurious Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston and San Luis Resort, Spa & Conference Center on Galveston Island.

To learn more about Landry's Inc., please visit: https://www.landrysinc.com/.

Photo credit: Courtesy of Dos Caminos