WATSONVILLE, CA - California Giant Berry Farms is a month out from the deadline to select chef finalists to compete in the 2nd annual Chef Invitational. May 1, 2019 is the deadline, and finalists will be announced May 10, 2019.

The event will take place on June 25, 2019 at the Tehama Golf Club in Monterey, CA. The Chef Invitational will present a Foodie Forum the morning of the event to unite foodservice partners, Chef finalists, California Giant Influencers, and special guests to share their industry experience and spark interactive conversation.

“We’re really looking forward to the addition of the Foodie Forum this year,” said Director of Foodservice, Tom Smith. “Our blogger and brand ambassador Ashley from Fit Mitten Kitchen will bring a relatable, attainable approach to cooking, and can communicate hacks and at-home tips for the everyday consumer to be able to recreate the chef inspired recipes at home.”

According to the company’s press release, the berry company has some fresh, new features it is adding this year, along with asking chefs to bring their very best berry-inspired entrées and desserts. The culinary competition and experience is meant to strengthen relationships and cultivate new partnerships. This will provide a better understanding into how California Giant can continue to build its brand and loyalty with this important audience, fresh trends, and berry trends.

Restaurant owner of Carmel’s Basil Seasonal Dining and Seaside’s Gusto Handcrafted Pasta and Pizza, Denis Boaro, will also be returning to the 2nd annual event as a judge and forum speaker. He will share his industry experience and discuss partnership development.

“The 1st annual Chef Invitational, served as an introduction to Denis' restaurant and his industry expertise which led to the opportunity to hit the ground running, and a joint partnership and friendship," explained Smith. "Denis utilizes California Giant berries on new menu items and at events, incorporates them into creative, savory dishes, and mixes ingredients and flavors that accent our berries in ways consumers have never seen before. Denis’ craft and innovation when it comes to flavor and berry utilization on the menu will surely spark creative collaboration around the room.”

Culinary tastings will be unlimited with bites and samples hand-made by Chef finalists for attendees to look at and appreciate as the Chef Invitational competition commences. The local sponsors will be showcasing and sampling berry-pairing offerings around the room as well. As reported by the press release, guests can savor happy hour courtesy of returning local sponsors Odonata Wines and Alfaro Family Vineyard Wines, Lula’s Chocolates, California Giant mixed berries, a California Giant raspberry beer collaboration with Santa Cruz Mountain Brewery, and a bunch of cheeses and meats to pair for an afternoon of bites, beverages, and entertainment.

Local radio and television personality, executive chef, and owner of Baker’s Bacon, Chef Tony Baker of Montrio Bistro, will emcee the competition this year, accompany the group on field tours and the Foodie Forum, and host the Chef’s Welcome Dinner.

“I’m really excited to be partnering with California Giant and participating in this year’s Chef Invitational event from start to finish,” said Baker. “It’s a great way to collaborate, network, and form new relationships and partnerships within the foodservice industry, and I look forward to spending a few days with the talented team of chef finalists.”

Joining the group during the 3-day event is 2018 Chef Invitational Top Chef Luis Reyes of Sysco West-Coast Florida, who will present the award to the incoming 2019 Chef Invitational Top Chef.

For updates on the 2nd annual Chef Invitational, keep reading AndNowUKnow.

California Giant Berry Farms