Blackwell Smith will return to First Tennessee Pavilion on Sunday, Aug. 10, to defend his title in Chattanooga Market's annual FiveStar Food Fight.
One of the most popular market events, this competition pits five well-known chefs in a race against the clock to source, cook and serve the judges a palate-pleasing, creative meal. Adding to the tension, the chefs can't plan ahead because they aren't told the main ingredient (beef, chicken, pork or fish) until 11:30 a.m. that day.
IF YOU GO¦ What: FiveStar Food Fight at Chattanooga Market.¦ When: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10.¦ Where: First Tennessee Pavilion, 1829 Reggie White Blvd.¦ Admission: Free.¦ Phone: 423-648-2496.FIVESTAR FOOD FIGHT CHEFS¦ Peter Barlow of Easy Bistro & Bar¦ Eric Fulkerson of Bald Headed Bistro in Cleveland, Tenn.¦ Blackwell Smith of Beast + Barrel¦ Eric Pippert of Alleia¦ Rebecca Barron of St. John's Restaurant
Once the meat is revealed, the chefs have about an hour to decide what to make then shop for ingredients among the market vendors. Marketgoers are encouraged to watch and follow as the chefs pick and choose among the fresh fruits, vegetables and cheese.
From 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., the chefs will demonstrate their culinary skills as they cook their dishes on FiveStar ranges, a market sponsor. Emcee Kelley McCoy, of KZ106, will give the play-by-play on what each chef is preparing, their ingredients and provide the audience with personal interviews from each.
A panel of local judges will select the winner.
As always, the pavilion will be filled with more than 150 vendors selling fresh produce, meat, cheese, flowers and arts and crafts to marketgoers in addition to the action in the friendly food fight.