COMPETITOR

The Local

HEAD COOK: Craig Baker

COMPETITION: World Burger Championship

QUALIFYING EVENT: Bull Burger Battle - Indianapolis

Chef Craig Baker Craig worked his way through college in the back-of-the-house in various restaurants in Pennsylvania and Annapolis, Maryland. After college graduation, he followed his passion to Portland, Oregon and into the kitchen of Assaggio, a popular authentic Italian restaurant, where he served as Chef. Over the following 19 years, he has excelled in the industry. His first restaurant and bar, Echo, in Portland was ranked one of Portland’s top 50 restaurants in 04’-05’ and one of its top 10 new bars of 2004. In 2006, Craig sold Echo to his business partner and relocated to Indiana. Craig also has had recognition for his work in culinary competitions, industry publications and in the press. Some of his recipes have been featured in the “Best of” lists in both Indianapolis and Portland. In 2012 he was named by Best Chef’s of America, Urban Spoons -Top 100 lists for Family Friendly Meals and Gluten Free in the country, Top 10 Cocktails -best of Charcuterie-Top Meals-Hot Spots by Indy Monthly. In 2010 Craig Baker and Derek Means opened The Local Eatery and Pub focusing on farm to table cuisine for families, not just foodies bringing the ideology home. The Local Eatery and Pub has also been recognized by national publications and radio for their mission to support local economies, farms and artisans.