Local Chef Competing in Great American Seafood Cook-Off

John Waller wrote portions of this article.

A local chef is in the process of opening a Newton restaurant soon, but before that happens, he'll participate in the the prestigious Great American Seafood Cook-Off in New Orleans on Saturday, Aug. 3.

Paul Turano, chef and owner of Arlington's Tryst and the soon-to-open Cook in Newton, was nominated by Gov. Deval Patrick to represent Massachusetts in the contest. It’s the first time Massachusetts will be in the competition, which asks chefs to create unique dishes and flavor combinations with domestic seafood that is native to their home states.

The competition will take place in the Morial Convention Center, along with the Louisiana Restaurant Association Food Service Expo.

Look for an article about Turano's new Newton restaurant, Cook, next week.