Local Chefs To Face Off In Hamptons “Chowdah Chowdown”

Springs Food Pantry and Share the Harvest Farm will join forces to host the debut Hamptons “Chowdah Chowdown” on Saturday, November 9. The mouthwatering inaugural fundraiser will take place at Springs Tavern in East Hampton from 1 to 4 p.m.

“We have a stellar lineup of chefs participating in this weekend’s taste-off!” Jess Tonn of Share the Harvest noted. “Please come by to sample them all and vote for your favorite.”

Several East End eateries and chefs will lend a helping hand by showcasing their delectable expertise and whipping up a batch of their best chowder, which will be judged by attendees. Participants will include A Kitchen for Liam, Pete Ambrose, Breadzilla, The Clubhouse, Dockside, East End Food Institute, E.H. Sportsmen’s Alliance, One Stop Market, SALT, Smokin’ Wolf BBQ, Springs Fire Department, Springs General Store, Springs Tavern, Stuart’s Seafood, and more.

While thinking of chowder, especially if you’re from the East End, your mind might immediately think of the clam variation. But, if that’s not your thing, there will be plenty of other tasty options to try. “If you don’t like clam chowder, don’t worry,” Tonn explained. “We’ll have corn chowder, fish chowder, beef stew, and gumbo.”

And, since this is a competition, make sure to come hungry. “Come vote for your favorite Chowdah at our first ever ‘Chowdah Chowdown,'” Holly Reichart-Wheaton, Springs Food Pantry Chairperson, encouraged. “A $20 donation gets you a mug and unlimited tastings from over 16 participating local restaurants and cooks who will be competing for a trophy and BRAGGING rights.”

Proceeds from the afternoon will support Share the Harvest Farm and Springs Food Pantry.

Share the Harvest, which began on a half acre in 2010, now consists of seven acres in East Hampton. The organization’s mission is to grow and harvest high-quality, nutritious produce that it donates to local organizations who address food insecurity on the East End – such as South Fork food pantries, The Retreat, affordable housing complexes, East Hampton Town Senior Citizens Nutrition Center, and more.

The Springs Food Pantry was established in 1992. Its mission is to reduce food insecurity, as well as provide nutrition education to low-income families. In Suffolk County, East Hampton has the highest poverty rate and the Springs Food Pantry assists nearly 10,000 people each year.

“All proceeds from the event will benefit the joint missions of Share the Harvest Farm and Springs Food Pantry to help feed local families in need all year long,” Tonn added.

“A fun day bringing the community together to help neighbors in need,” Reichart-Wheaton concluded.

Admission to the “Chowdah Chowdown” is a ​$20 donation, which includes a reusable mug and unlimited samples.

​Springs Tavern is located at 15 Fort Pond Boulevard in East Hampton. For more information, visit www.sharetheharvestfarm.org.