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    Editor's Note: This story is unlocked for everyone to read courtesy of the CRVA, our partner in nourishing culinary exploration for residents and visitors of the Queen City.

    August 10, 2023

    Charlotte chefs travel to Raleigh for statewide contest

    The NCRLA Chef Showdown honors chefs, mixologist of the year


    by Kristen Wile

    Ann Marie Stefaney is one of several Charlotte-area chefs and pastry chefs who will compete on Monday night in Raleigh. Photo courtesy

    Ann Marie Stefaney is one of several Charlotte-area chefs and pastry chefs who will compete on Monday night in Raleigh. Photo courtesy

    Several Charlotte-area chefs and mixologists will compete for the title of best in the state at the upcoming Chef Showdown hosted by the North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association.

    The annual competition features several rounds; first, chefs grouped by region competed to advance in one of five preliminary contests beginning in May. Charlotte’s preliminary contest took place in June at Central Piedmont Community College, where judges tasted dishes from local contestants and scored them to see who would move on. Across the state, 76 chefs and pastry chefs competed in the first round. The regional rounds featured 20 chefs, who were then narrowed down to the competing 24 chefs (19 savory, five pastry).

    At the event, which acts as a fundraiser for North Carolina’s hospitality advocacy group, a chef, mixologist, and pastry chef of the year will be named. Fan favorites will also be honored, based on attendees’ favorite dishes at the event. Winners and runners up become part of the state’s culinary ambassadors for the year. Last year, Oscar Johnson of Jimmy Pearls was named Chef of the Year.

    Chefs: 
    Olajuwon Mason, Kimpton Hotel
    Michael Beers, River Run Country Club
    Jamie Barnes, What the Fries

    Pastry chefs: 
    Savannah Broder, The Ballantyne Hotel
    Ann Marie Stefaney, Restaurant Constance
    Catie Van Slyke, Krispy Kreme

    Mixologists:
    Eli Privette, The Crunkleton
    Sekani Akunyun, Lavender & Libations Experience

    Each mixologist is paired with a North Carolina spirit, with Privette making a cocktail using Southern Distilling Co. and Akunyun using Seven Jars Distillery products.

    The finals will take place on Monday, Aug. 14 in Raleigh at Angus Barn.
    Posted in: Latest Updates, News