Oklahoma's Best High School Culinary Talent to Compete for State Championship and National Berth

Winners advance to National ProStart Invitational in Baltimore with scholarships and industry opportunities on the line

OKLAHOMA CITY (Feb. 11, 2026) – Oklahoma's most talented high school culinary arts and restaurant management students will compete for state supremacy at the annual Ben E. Keith Oklahoma ProStart® Invitational on Feb. 26, 2026, at Francis Tuttle Technology Center, 12777 N. Rockwell Ave., Oklahoma City.
More than 90 students from eight schools across the state will showcase their skills in front of industry judges, vying for the championship title and the opportunity to represent Oklahoma at the 2026 National ProStart Invitational in Baltimore, April 24-26.

The competition features two distinct challenges. In the management category, student teams will pitch innovative restaurant concepts to a panel of industry professionals. Culinary teams will face an even more demanding test: preparing a three-course meal in just 60 minutes using only two butane burners—without running water or electricity. Judges will evaluate presentations on taste, technical skill, teamwork, food safety and sanitation practices.

ProStart is a nationally recognized two-year career training program administered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation. Operating in nearly 1,850 high schools across the United States and Guam, the program currently serves 165,000 students and has impacted more than 1 million young people over the past 24 years. Many program graduates have launched successful careers in the restaurant and hospitality industry.
The Oklahoma Restaurant Association hosts the state championship, with sponsorship from Ben E. Keith Co.
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About the Oklahoma Restaurant Association
Founded in 1933, the Oklahoma Restaurant Association is the trade association of restaurants and foodservice operations, the state's largest private industry employer. Representing more than 4,500 restaurants and members, the ORA actively monitors legislation and regulatory agencies; helps foodservice owners and management develop and strengthen business operations; and inspires membership to do together for the industry what cannot be done individually.