Angus Barn Executive Chef Walter Royal is all for telling secrets. Whether it's a four-page spread of his recipes in Southern Living magazine or in casual conversation with his next door neighbor, Royal will share his award-winning recipes with just about anyone. However, when it comes to his recent appearance on "Iron Chef America," he isn't budging.

"My lips are sealed until Dec. 10," Royal said, regarding the winner and notorious "secret ingredient."

Royal will appear as a challenger on the Food Network's hit show, "Iron Chef America." The episode is set to air Sunday, Dec. 10, at 9 p.m.

The episode, entitled "Cora vs. Royal," pitted Iron Chef Cat Cora, a Mississippi native, against Royal in a battle to determine whose Southern cooking reigns supreme.

The famed "secret ingredient" as well as the victor of the cooking battle will remain a mystery until Dec. 10.

With 11 years under his belt as executive chef at the Angus Barn, Royal is one of only two chefs from the South, and the only one from the Carolinas, selected to participate this season. He traveled to New York City in late January for the taping of the show.

"It was a truly unique experience," Royal said. "I am so honored that Iron Chef America chose me as a competitor. I brought my Southern cooking skills to the table and hopefully represented the Angus Barn and Raleigh well."

"Iron Chef America" is based on the format of a very popular Japanese television series using a kitchen stadium format and the famed "secret ingredient."

Each week, world class chefs battle legendary Iron Chefs Bobby Flay, Mario Batali, Masaharu Morimoto, and Cat Cora in a 60-minute showdown for the best dish based on taste, presentation and originality.

Royal's appearance on "Iron Chef America" is one of many exciting events for the Angus Barn in the coming months. Royal will host an "Iron Chef America"-themed dinner at the restaurant, as well as offering monthly cooking classes.

The landmark Raleigh restaurant will also open a new addition to its world-renowned wine cellar in early 2007; it will feature a 36-seat dining room and state-of-the-art kitchen designed personally by Royal.