White fell into his culinary career by enlisting in the U.S. Navy. on Sept. 11, a few months after graduation. “Something came over me, and I felt like ‘I’m going to join the military.’ … The only thing I qualified for was a cook.”  He turned out to love the Navy.  He learned to make turkey a la king, Salisbury steak and mac and cheese for 600 to 700 sailors. He cooked for enlisted personnel at first but was soon promoted to making food for high-ranking enlisted sailors, then officers and the captain himself.  He traveled to Mexico, the home of his wife and fell in love with ceviche and became a self-proclaimed “ceviche geek”   Being on “Top Chef” made white a national brand and he appeared on Top Chef Season 13.

By the way, ceviche is one of my favorite foods and not only delicious with a kick but healthy.  I encourage all to try it.  In fact, I think I am having a craving for it right now.  – Debbie Gregory