Michael Merida, chef and owner of Rockin Roots in Hillsdale, squared off on Food Network’s show Beat Bobby Flay in an episode titled ‘The Queen is In’ that aired over the weekend.

Merida first had to compete against another chef challenger, trying to impress Martha Stewart and chef Richard Blais, using Mandarin oranges as an ingredient.

After wowing the judges with his Couscous salad with Mandarin ponzu, Marcona almonds and Mandarin crema, Merida faced off with Flay choosing fish croquettes for his showdown.

Merida was successful in his bid with his cod croquettes (with roasted tomato aioli and pickled fennel) slaying Flay’s blue crab and shrimp croquettes (with romesco and green onion sauce) for the panel of three industry experts.

For those who want to check out his food, his eatery Rockin Roots is open six days a week (closed Sundays).

Rockin’ Roots
434 Hillsdale Avenue
Hillsdale, NJ
Website

[photo source: Food Network]