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Don’t miss the exciting American Culinary Federation competition kitchens all three days of the Expo. It’s own version of popular television cooking competitions. You’ll see how our region’s top chefs prepare award winning culinary creations. The Culinary Play-by-Play gives you a front row seat at the competitions with big screen TV’s and entertaining expert commentary. You’ll take home new prep styles, menu ideas and techniques from the region’s best and brightest chefs.

There are three distinctive high-pressure, high-stakes competitions for your enjoyment.

Contemporary Competition - Monday
Chefs create their own signature dishes with their own ingredients. The catch? Each chef has one hour to complete their dish and they are not allowed any advanced prep or cooking! It’s a faced paced, unique competition that yields unique, extravagant dishes.

Cold Food Competition- Tuesday
This unique competition is all about appearances. See chefs prepare beautifully designed appetizers, entrees and desserts that are presented on platters and mirrors and coated in a preserving aspic glaze. These creations are judged solely on presentation, craftsmanship and artistry. It’s a feast for the eyes!

Mystery Basket Competition – Tuesday and Wednesday
Always a crowd favorite! The competition features teams of chefs racing the clock to prepare a four-course meal with ingredients that are kept secret until the competition begins. Don’t miss the excitement!