California Giant Berry Farms Announces Call for Entries for 5th Annual Chef Invitational; Tom Smith Shares
WATSONVILLE, CA - From Giant Berry Pizza to Blackberry Lamb Kofta, California Giant Berry Farms had tongues wagging last year at its 4th annual Chef Invitational. Luckily for us, the event is returning for its 5th iteration, inviting chefs to think outside the box to create innovative, original dishes using the supplier’s berries as the star of the plate.
“We’re thrilled to be hosting our 5th annual Chef Invitational,” said Tom Smith, Director of Sales at California Giant Berry Farms. “With our revamped, trend-focused guidelines, we’re excited to see what innovative berry applications chefs bring to the table.”
The event invites foodservice, corporate, and restaurant chefs to compete in the competition by submitting a main dish recipe that highlights the versatility of fresh berries. According to a release, in 2023, the submission guidelines now require the recipe to fall under one or more of the key trends identified by Flavor & the Menu, including Asian Breakfast Wakes Up, Mustard’s Moment, The Dark Side of Butter, True Colors, and Time for Thai.
Upon receiving submissions, a panel of judges will determine a group of semi-finalists whose recipes will move on to a public voting round to determine the People’s Choice Award winner.
Both the People’s Choice Winner and Chef Invitational Finalists will travel to California’s Central Coast at the end of June to tour California Giant’s fields and facilities, enjoy varietal tastings, meal events, and more. After the tours and educational activities, the finalists will present their dishes to guests and a panel of judges during an event that will occur on June 28, where the Top Chef will be named.
The Top Chef will receive $1,000, as well as a $1,000 donation to the charity of their choice. They will have the opportunity to serve as the company’s Chef Ambassador through a variety of in-person and virtual engagements, too. The People’s Choice Winner will receive a $500 check and a donation of $500 to the charity of their choice.
For more information on how to apply, click here.
What will this year’s event serve up in terms of innovation and inspiration? Keep an eye on AndNowUKnow for updates.
