Food Network's Chopped Winner, Shehu Fitzgerald, Opens Upscale Eatery in New York City

NEW YORK - June 12, 2013 - PRLog -- NEW YORK, NY— Born and bred in New York, famed chef, Shehu (pronounced SHAY-U) Fitzgerald is returning home. The 2011 winner of the Food Network’s competitive cooking program, Chopped, Fitzgerald recently opened a high end eatery called the Phunky Elephant (www.thephunkyelephant.com) in his hometown of Staten Island. Located at 1271 Bay Street, the Phunky Elephant is a gastro pub that specializes in high quality, fresh and seasonal cuisine. On Monday, June 24th, Shehu will be hosting a grand opening event to celebrate his newest venture.

Expanding on the concept first developed by the British (two distinct menus served in two separate seating areas), Fitzgerald presents a unique spin on the idea of a gastro pub with a menu of “Twisted American Cuisine”—American comfort food taken to another level. Seasoned with his own deliciously blended spices from his newly launched line, The IllChef, Shehu has created a tantalizing bar menu featuring his unique take on some of America’s favorite dishes. With a rustic pub setting, the Phunky Elephant offers patrons a relaxed yet upscale feel with two seating areas that presents a choice of a cozy, intimate culinary experience in the dining room or a more upbeat atmosphere in the main room.

New York’s food enthusiasts and tastemakers are invited to experience an evening of cocktails and decadent crudités creations. Guests get to mix and mingle and sample the Phunky Elephant’s offerings. Festivities begin at 6pm.

For press inquiries, contact Tamara Walker at tamara@sienamediagrp.com

To RSVP, contact Tanya Sotillo at Tanya@luxecolore.com