‘Top Chef’ Season 5 open audition

Paul Inserra, 27

Bartender, Sfoglia

Why should a bartender be Top Chef?
I went to the French Culinary Institute and do private chef work on the side. But mixology has a lot to do with flavors, and wine pairing is really important.

What do you think Tom looks for in contestants?
The seasoning of food. It seems like a rookie mistake is to not season your food, or at least not tasting your food.

What is your go-to dish to pull out of the bag?
 Beer-and-bacon soup. It’s some good comfort food, and on my blog (http://paulsrecipepage.blogspot.com/).