James Beard Award winner Justin Aprahamian visits the Farmer's Market...then cooks up something delicious

He entered the culinary world at just 12 years old -- helping out with his uncle's catering company.

At the age of 16, he applied for work at the chef owned and operated Steven Wades Cafe. Wanting to learn all aspects of a kitchen -- he accepted a job as a dishwasher, and worked his way up to garde manager.

During his time at Wades, he graduated from high school and immediately enrolled in the culinary program at Waukesha County Technical College.

He earned an Associates Degree at the age of 18 -- and joined the kitchen staff at Sanford Restaurant in Milwaukee -- then owned by renowned Chef Sanford D'Amato and his wife, Angie.

He was hired as a prep cook -- and moved up the line. By 2005, three years after receiving his Associates Degree, he was promoted to sous chef.

In December of 2012, Justin Aprahamian purchased Sanford Restaurant from his mentors.

Most recently -- in May of 2014, Aprahamian won the coveted James Beard Award for "Best Chef Midwest" -- following in the footsteps of Sandy D'Amato -- Sanford Restaurant's founder.

D'Amato was Wisconsin's first chef to win a Beard Award, in 1996.

Justin Aprahamian was nominated for "Best Chef Midwest" in 2011, 2012 and 2013.

Aprahamian and Studio A's Brian Kramp visited the West Allis Farmer's Market for fresh supplies -- and then Justin was in our studio -- cooking up a delicious meal!

Click the video link above to see what he created!

CLICK HERE for Justin Aprahamian's biography -- and for more information on Sanford Restaurant (located on N. Jackson Street in Milwaukee).