![Martin Carabott](/sites/default/files/styles/single_page/public/images/martincarabott_emp_cooksbattleprep11.jpg?itok=Nj_3KfBi)
Offering winners experience at any three star Michelin kitchen in world, Carabott said he chose Eleven Madison Park because “(he) loves the food they do because it is technically perfect, yet looks simple and sharp.
He added: “I have admired the evolution of the food and the identity of the restaurant, and how it became cleaner and more refined.”
Starting out by helping in the kitchen, Carabott was soon trained on different sections by chef de cuisine, Brian Lockwood, and even created a dish for its ‘Cook Battle’ competition.
Lockwood said: “During his time at Eleven Madison Park, Martin was able to spend time with chefs working on four different stations in the kitchen.
“He also participated in our quarterly ‘Cook Battle’ competition, which really helps drive our collaborative creativity.
“He placed second out of 50 cooks, which is a huge honour in itself.
“He worked really hard, was super-focused and will no doubt make an impact in our industry in the coming years.”
Martin added: “I was thrown in the deep end (at Eleven Madison Park), which I really enjoyed and I was embraced as one of the team. To do well on four different sections in one of the best restaurants in the world, is a real boost for me.
“Even though it was tough, I am happy I lived up to the reputation of the Roux Scholarship and its scholars, learning a ton of techniques along the way.
“I am returning to the UK a much better chef than when I arrived (in the US).”
Co-chairman Michel Roux Jr said: “I am so happy Martin has had such a fantastic experience at Eleven Madison Park.
“(Co-owner) Daniel Humm is a true master of his craft often, using only two or three ingredients to mind blowing effect.
“Coupled with living in New York, one of the world’s gastronomic capitals, (Carabott) has had an enriching, once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
He will also receive support and encouragement from fellow Roux scholars and organisers, the Roux Family, for the rest of his career.
To be in with the chance of winning a three-month stage of their own, aspiring chefs have until 31 January to enter the 2019 contest.