There’s this one particular show on The Food Network that I think delights foodies with a bit of an edge to their culinary attitudes. It’s called “Sweet Genius” and the host reminds me of Mike Meyer’s Dr. Evil character, but of course, with a touch of sweetness! Dessert Master Ron Ben- Israel can come up with the most innovative items for chefs in the competition to work with, but it’s the overall production of the show that makes it so much fun. He’s a very interesting guy, finding his way into adventures in confections after 15 years as a modern dancer. The second season of Sweet Genius premiers this Thursday, March 15^th and Tampa’s own Pastry Chef Alon Gontowski will compete on the April 5^th episode. And no…no spoiler alerts here! Alon will compete against three other chefs for a $10,000 grand prize, and of course, the title of “Sweet Genius.” This is a tough show for any chef, considering amount of time they are given for their creations and some over the top surprise ingredients. But when there’s a $10,000 prize on the line, hey, you deal with it.

    Chef Alon has been with the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Tampa for five years, with more than 20 sweet years of experience in the pastry field. He’s also a Guinness World Record holder, for his part in creating the world’s largest wedding cake in 2005 that came in at a substantial 12,034 pounds. That’s a whole lot of fondant! He’s very well known for his delicate touch with the use of a household paint sprayer on his creations. Wonder if that will come into play on “Sweet Genius?!” As they say, stay tuned.

   For “Dinner Impossible” and fans of Chef Robert Irvine, you’ll have a chance to see him in action when he brings the stage show to Clearwater’s Ruth Eckerd Hall Friday, April 13^that 8 pm. Tickets are on sale now for this one night only experience. We’ll also give you a chance to win tickets on our contest page at mymagic949.com. But check back in with Kelly's Kitchen and hear from Chef Robert himself soon.

WORDS OF WISDOM FROM KELLY’S KITCHEN

Seize the moment.  Remember all those women on the Titanic who waved off the dessert cart.  ~Erma Bombeck