2024 - The Cook’s Tale

Zach Laidlaw, a 2024 “Next Level Chef” television series finalist, began his culinary journey at just 13 years old in his hometown of Burlington, Illinois.

Starting as a dishwasher in a local restaurant, Laidlaw was quickly drawn to cooking, inspired by his brother, who worked there as a cook. “I’ve got to learn how to cook this thing,” Laidlaw recalled thinking after his brother served him steak during a shift. That moment marked the beginning of a lifelong passion for the culinary arts.

Fast-forward 21 years, and Laidlaw found himself competing on the Fox Network culinary reality show, judged by celebrity chefs such as Gordon Ramsay.

“I’m just forever grateful for that opportunity,” Laidlaw said. “It literally came out of nowhere.”

Before his culinary career took him to unexpected places and opportunities, Laidlaw started his expedition in the Culinary Arts & Hospitality Program at Elgin Community College (ECC) in 2007. He earned degrees in both culinary arts and hospitality management while working full time as a cook and server.

The Beginning

Deciding to attend ECC was a pivotal decision in Laidlaw’s life.

“Choosing the culinary route kind of saved me,” he said. “I was a troublemaker kid, so culinary really pulled me together and got my head straight.”

Laidlaw found his perfect fit at ECC because it was close to his home, affordable, and he could work while attending classes.

“The whole time I was at ECC was great,” Laidlaw said. “I really got to learn the fundamentals and basic techniques to get me to where I wanted to take my culinary career.”

While in school and working, Laidlaw networked with other chefs and restaurateurs, which inspired him and sparked his interest in the molecular side of cooking.

“Becoming more technical with my food was more fulfilling with the dishes I was creating,” he said.

Laidlaw’s talent and drive led him to pursue his culinary dreams, opening restaurants and cooking in various locations. From his hometown in Illinois to the British Virgin Islands and later Australia, Laidlaw eventually found his landing point in what he describes as paradise: the island of Maui. There, he currently works as the executive chef and vice president of experiences at Hua Momona Farms, a 25-acre organically managed endeavor specializing in microgreens and small-batch vegetables.

Hawaii: Fires, Family, and Fox

In 2017, Laidlaw reconnected with an acquaintance, Gary Grube, an inventor, entrepreneur, and mentor from his Chicago days, to start Hua Momona Farms. Laidlaw settled into life on the farm, working tirelessly seven days a week.

However, his life took an unexpected turn when the Lahaina wildfires in Maui devastated his home and damaged the farm.

“I became homeless and in debt overnight,” Laidlaw said. Even with his home in ashes and the greenhouse roof blown off at the farm, Laidlaw made it his mission to help those in need. He activated the commercial kitchen and worked with other Maui chefs and volunteers to feed Lahaina’s displaced, which he still does today.

“As a victim of the fire myself, I just felt like it was the right thing to do,” Laidlaw said. “This is my home and family.”

A month after the wildfires, Laidlaw traveled to Ireland to film Fox’s “Next Level Chef.” It was difficult for him to leave his community during such a challenging time.

“I felt so guilty for leaving, but I’m so happy I did because it helped my mission to foster awareness about [relief efforts in] Maui,” Laidlaw said.

What’s Next?

“Next Level Chef” was just the start for this ECC Sensational 75 alum, who is eager to expand his brand.

“Maui and Hua Momona Farms is my home,” Laidlaw said, “but I’m traveling and doing a lot of pop-up gigs, food and wine festivals, and working on some brand deals.”

Although under contract with Fox for a year, he hopes to seize a potential opportunity with Food Network next.

“Fox gave me so much exposure, but hopefully, they’ll let me shine on another show. And if I can get on Food Network, I’m there and will win it this time.”