As Seen on TV, Big Al the Baker!

By: Paige K. Mitchell Alex Portis, also known as ‘Big Al’ continues to bring flavor to the city in a BIG way! Big Al, a resident of Monroeville and student at Gateway represented the people of Pittsburgh, PA. well on the Food Network. At the age of 8, Big Al learned of his passion for cooking. He was inspired by a series of different cooking shows, and his grandmother. The first thing he decided to bake was a chocolate cake for his family. “Unfortunately, my first cake wasn’t the best looking. It was pretty ugly, but my family said it tasted really good,” Big Al said. His love for baking continued to grow, and he decided to indulge in research of seeing about cooking contests and opportunities. Big Al decided to put his talents to the test, and found out about the Food Network, Kids Backing Championship. He decided to take the leap of faith and apply. After many applications, phone calls, and interviews; Big Al was selected at the age of 13 to compete with various gifted chefs ages 10-13. And was flown to LA to start filming. This opportunity changed the life Alex Portis, since the competition he continues to spread love through the world through his hand crafted pastries. “My baked good are sure to knock your socks off,” Big Al said. Big Al says his favorite thing to cook is cakes and cupcakes. If you are interested in placing an order with Big Al’ (412)335-5573. Fun Fact: Big Al’ skipped tracked practice to interview with us. And his mother Audrey Portis is his Mom-manager [momager].