

Pascal Sauton [Photo: Dina Avila Photography]

Ladies and gentleman, we can officially crown Eater's Third Annual Hottest Chef in America. The winner after thousands of votes: chef Pascal Sauton of Milwaukie Kitchen & Wine in Milwaukie, OR (a suburb just south of Portland).

Said Sauton over the phone, "It's totally overwhelming that I got that response... it's been such a fun ride." It's been a crazy week for Sauton: Just last Thursday his restaurant got a glowing review from the Oregonian's David Sarasohn. Combined with Valentine's Day, according to Sauton, "We got absolutely hammered with business over the weekend."

Milwaukie Kitchen & Wine is a combination wine shop/deli/specialty grocery/caterer/cooking school/restaurant that opened a little over a year ago. Dinner service started a few months ago. Said Sauton, "The community has really responded well and given us a lot of support."

Up until recently he participated in triathlons. "It was kind of my midlife crisis," said Sauton. "Instead of buying an expensive car, I needed to do something significant to celebrate my 50th birthday. It was in association with the leukemia society." Sadly he had to stop, though. "I blew a meniscus in my knee so I had to stop," he said. "I still ride my bike and swim."

Sauton previously owned Carafe, a bistro in downtown Portland — but then he and his wife/co-owner divorced and he sold it and moved to the suburbs. Which means, ladies, he's single.

· Milwaukie Kitchen & Wine [Official Site]

· All Hottest Chef Coverage on Eater [-E-]