Leader of the Pack, Chowderfest revs up for its 21rst year, Sunday October 4

Aug. 14, 2009 - PRLog -- Everyone is a critic at Chowderfest, that’s what makes it so much fun. Top local restaurants all vying to be the coveted Grand Champion of Red or White Chowder, based on the festival goer’s secret vote. Joining the attendees this year, will be a group of select chefs and food writers assembled by Ed Hitzel, food connoisseur, radio and television host.

Ed Hitzel is an accomplished journalist, specializing in the dining experience. He writes a monthly restaurant newsletter, publishes a quarterly magazine, hosts Ed Hitzel’s Table for One Radio Show and also has a weekend television show, Ala Carte. To add another ingredient to his list of credentials, he has launched a No Salt Everything Spice available at local restaurants and on his website Edhitzel.com.

Ed will be bringing his expertise, along with a dedicated group of culinary writers and chefs to sample, judge and bestow the Critic’s Choice Award. Last year, based on the criteria created by Hitzel, the group chose Panzone’s Pizza and Pasta of Beach Haven and Surf City as their first recipient . With the list of this year’s Chowderfest contestants growing to include brand new restaurants, such as Dock Road Crab House in Cedar Run  and 217 East Main in Tuckerton, Ed and his crew will certainly be in for some tough decision making.

Chowderfest Weekend takes place at Taylor Avenue Ball Field in Beach Haven, Rain or shine. Saturday October 3 is a free open air market, filled with hundreds of bargains, and live entertainment. Sunday, October 4 is the Chowder Cook Off Classic, featuring unlimited red and white chowder tasting, live music from Hawkins Road, costumed characters and plenty of surprises.Chowderfest Tickets are $20 per adult, $10 per child 12 and under. Tickets are on sale for $50, include early entrance and Official T Shirt. All are available at www.visitLBIregion.com by calling 609 494 7211 or visiting the Southern Ocean County Chamber Office 265 West Ninth Street, Ship Bottom, NJ 08005.

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