NJ Chef Wins Contest on Buddy Valastro’s Hulu Show
Maricel Gentile, the talented chef behind East Brunswick’s Maricel’s Kitchen, recently took home the title of Holiday Champion on Buddy Valastro’s Hulu series, Holiday Recipe Rumble, which premiered on December 6th. Originally from Manila, Maricel brings her passion for Filipino and Asian cuisine to New Jersey, where she delights cooks of all levels with her culinary creations.
In a heartwarming episode focusing on Noche Buena, the Filipino Christmas Eve celebration, Maricel, her husband Paul, and their youngest son, Paul Michael, showcased a menu that blended her Filipino heritage with her husband’s Italian background. From traditional dishes like Lola’s Holiday Ham and Pancit Bihon to Italian favorites like Baccalà Salad, Maricel’s dishes impressed the judges with their authenticity and warmth.
Reflecting on her win, Maricel shared, “Noche Buena has always been a cherished tradition for me, and having the opportunity to share it with a national audience alongside my family was truly unforgettable. I hope our menu inspires others to embrace diverse holiday traditions and add a touch of Filipino flavor to their celebrations. And cooking together as a family? That’s the real holiday magic.”
Beyond her success on the show, Maricel’s love for food extends to her cooking classes at Maricel’s Kitchen, where participants cook, laugh, and learn in an interactive environment. Known for making Filipino cuisine approachable and fun, Maricel has also showcased her vibrant dishes on national TV, including appearances on PBS and the Food Network, spreading the joy of Filipino food far and wide.
Her key to success? A dedication to sharing culture through food and a belief that the most delicious recipes always come with a story.
