Congratulations to the new media darling, Gavin Kaysen. Chef Kaysen of the El Bizcocho Restaurant at Rancho Bernardo Inn recently appeared on NBC’s “Today Show.” Why, you ask? Well, Kaysen, 27, is one of the youngest chefs ever to compete in the finals of the Bocuse d’Or, a culinary competition held every two years in Lyon, France, founded by and named after the legendary French chef Paul Bocuse. It is sort of the “World Cup” of culinary competitions with chefs from 24 countries competing in an “Iron Man”-style competition. Kaysen had to beat out two other American finalists, Rick Gresh from the Saddle & Cycle Club, Chicago, and Keith Armstrong of Piping Rock Club, Long Island, N.Y., to make the competition.

Kaysen and his assistant, Brandon Rodgers, presented two dishes to a panel of 24 international judges. The pair had been working over the past year to perfect their dishes, which included a halibut and crab torte and Bresse chicken ballotine.

Although Kaysen did not place in this year’s international competition, he made a great showing and represented the United States very well.

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Savory in Encinitas will begin serving brunch late this month. In addition to offerings such as chef Pascal Vignau’s popular beet salad and onion soup, he has created some dazzling“brunchy” dishes like “Gouda Biscuits and Seafood Gravy,” “Spinach and Artichoke Frittata” and French toast made of lemon pound cake. Visit savorycasualfare.com.

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Later this month D.Z. Akins Restaurant and Delicatessen will host its first benefit in over 27 years of business. On March 12, D.Z. Akins will close its doors early and reopen at 5 p.m. to host a benefit for an employee of over 17 years, Aaron Alkana. Alkana, who was diagnosed with a double brain aneurysm, was ordered by doctors to take a year off to rest. Proceeds from the evening’s benefit will help his family cover medical and other major expenses. Tickets are $30 per person and $50 per couple. The event takes place from 5-9 p.m. and will include live entertainment, a raffle, musicians, artists, tarot card readers, magicians and a variety of family fun activities. D.Z. Akins’ meals will be served by local San Diego celebrities. Tickets can be purchased at D.Z. Akins at 6039 Alvarado Road or call (619) 265-0218.

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The Westgate Hotel will present a Castello Banfi wine dinner as the first dinner of Le Fontainebleau California Wine & Dinner Collection. The first dinner of the series is slated for Thursday, March 22 at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $79 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Seating is based on availability. For more information, call (619) 238-1818.

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Congratulations to Kathleen Cochran of Loews Coronado Bay Resort & Spa who last month was named “General Manager of the Year” by the California Hotel and Lodging Association. In addition to her ability to mentor, lead by example, mitigate crisis situations and effectively communicate with her more than 500 employees, Cochran was honored for her noble involvement in the community, particularly her development of Loews Coronado Bay Resort’s award-winning Good Neighbor Council, a group of employees who volunteer their time and talents to charitable causes throughout San Diego County.

Terryl Gavre believes the world would be a better place if everyone worked once as a foodserver. She is owner of Café 222, Downtown, and can be reached at (619) 233-4060, Ext. 316, or terryl@sandiegometro.com.