The nominee is an executive chef or chef de cuisine who demonstrates consistent standards of excellence and serves as an inspiration to other food professionals. The nominee displays a dedication to the artistry of food, exhibits an ongoing commitment to the community and may be from any type of establishment. The nominee must have been a chef for the past five

years with a minimum of two years in Maryland by January 1, 2009.

Monocacy Crossing, in Frederick, Maryland, was established in February of 2000. As soon as guests walk through the establishment’s doors, they can relax, are immediately comfortable and feel right at home. Chef Rich Regan and Kelly Regan own the restaurant which boasts delicious cuisines and an enticing wine list. Chef Regan has become an inspiration to other food professionals by opening his doors to student chefs throughout the years. Within its nine years of operation, Monocacy Crossing has had six students from Le Academie de Cuisine, two students from Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Miami and one recent graduate of Johnson and Whales.

The restaurant supports the local community whenever possible through efforts including charitable fundraisers and sponsoring youth sports. Chef Regan uses his inspiration from wine dinners, special requests and suggestions from the front of the house personnel to reinvent and revisit cooking techniques like braising and using sustainable products. His creativity and generosity have helped create the strong symbiotic relationship both he and Monocacy Crossing have established with the town of Urbana over the years.

back to nominees