Local pastry chef and restaurateur Julian Perrigo-Jimenez is once again stepping into the national spotlight as he competes on the upcoming season of Food Network’s Spring Baking Championship.
No stranger to the high-energy world of televised baking competitions, the proprietor of Julian’s Patisserie in Folsom, Perrigo-Jimenez has previously showcased his sugar artistry and chocolate mastery on Holiday Wars, Cake Wars Christmas, and Halloween Wars. Now, he’s back to prove his pastry prowess on a stage where creativity and technical skill will determine who takes home the coveted title of Spring Baking Champion—along with a $25,000 grand prize and a feature in Food Network Magazine.
“Skilled bakers create magic in the kitchen with their incredible creations, so it was fitting to celebrate and highlight those skills with a new spring season with a magical theme,” said Betsy Ayala, Head of Content, Food. “The creativity of the bakers and their edible works of art will leave viewers astounded and wanting more.”
Perrigo-Jimenez’s journey in the culinary world has taken him from his hometown of Folsom to the bustling kitchens of Las Vegas, where he worked at some of the world’s top resorts, overseeing catering, special events, and restaurant operations. But recently, he and his family made the decision to return home to Folsom and pursue their dream of opening their own pastry shop.
Despite his extensive experience, competing on Food Network always brings its own unique challenges. “When they say ‘action,’ you start hustling,” said Perrigo-Jimenez after his last appearance on Food Network. “It’s a lot of very spur-of-the-moment decision-making.”
This season’s Spring Baking Championship will challenge Perrigo-Jimenez and his fellow contestants to create breathtaking desserts inspired by everything from honeybees to Marie Antoinette’s extravagant hairstyles. Hosted by Jesse Palmer, the competition will feature judges Duff Goldman, Nancy Fuller, and Kardea Brown, who will determine which baker rises to the occasion.
With a baker’s dozen of 13 contestants vying for the title, the competition is expected to be fierce. But with his signature flair for chocolate work and laminated dough creations, Perrigo-Jimenez is sure to bring something special to the table.
Perrigo-Jimenez not only has his longtime Folsom shop, but he has also expanded into Roseville with great success. Local residents and fans alike can cheer on their hometown chef by tuning in to Food Network or streaming the show on Max. Whether he takes home the grand prize or not, one thing is certain—Perrigo-Jimenez’s passion for pastry and his dedication to his craft will continue to make Folsom proud.
The new season premieres Monday, March 10, at 8 p.m. ET/PT and streams on Max, bringing viewers a season filled with magical, whimsical confections.
