After a fierce four hour cooking competition, chef Carmin Viola was last night named the Bermuda Rising Chef of the Year.A chef at The Newport, A Gastropub, Mrs Viola created a trio of flank steak that wowed the night’s judges radio personality Keevil “The Captain” Burgess, CEO of the Bermuda Hotel Association John Harvey and former executive chef of the Bermudiana Hotel Leo Betschart.In addition to the coveted title, she walked away with an all expenses paid trip to New York’s meat packing district to visit the renowned DeBragga and Spitler company. She also won a $350 Chef Shop gift certificate and crystal decanter and wine from Gosling’s.Mrs Viola, originally from the Philippines, was shocked by the win and said: “I am just so thankful for the support and happy.“I enjoyed it and I’m happy that the Bermuda Hospitality Institute is able to start this kind of competition again and I hope it continues.”She beat out a total of 11 other contestants, including the three male finalists, chefs Takemore Mukazika, Adam de la Cruz and Trevor Kliaman - all from the Fairmont hotel group. The sold-out event was organised by Karla Lacey of the BHI, thanks to sponsors Butterfield & Vallis, Lindo’s, Gosling’s and International Imports.