Get ready, Montclair—on Monday, June 16, the gloves (and aprons) come off at Gioia Mia for the first-ever “Porchetta Throwdown!”
Hosted by Cara Di Falco of Cara’s Cucina and Chef Jeff Galan of Fossil Farms, the throwdown brings together nine chefs from some of New Jersey’s most acclaimed kitchens. Their mission? To craft the most mouthwatering version of porchetta, the crispy, juicy, herby Italian roast pork dish. But it’s not all about pork and pride. The event raises money for Table to Table, a nonprofit that rescues fresh food and delivers it to food pantries and shelters across northern New Jersey.
Cara Di Falco of Cara’s Cucina is a co-host of the Porchetta Throwdown on June 16.
“This competition brings together some of our area’s most creative culinary minds to showcase their skills with a dish that’s close to every Italian-American’s heart,” said event organizer Cara Di Falco. “But more importantly, we’re doing it for a great cause – supporting Table to Table’s mission to fight hunger in our communities.”
Who’s Cooking?
Cara Di Falco – Cara’s Cucina
Jeff Galan – Fossil Farms in Boonton, NJ
Bianca Concepcion – Fossil Farms in Boonton, NJ
Logan Ramirez – Gioia Mia in Montclair, NJ
Felix Gonzalez – Viaggio & Osteria Crescendo in Westwood, NJ
Lawrence Talis – Ava’s Kitchen & Bar in Kenilworth, NJ
Andre DeWaal – Andre’s Lakeside in Sparta, NJ
Antonio De Ieso – Fiorentini in Rutherford, NJ
Gus Gutierrez – Cubita Cafe in Nutley, NJ
Details
Porchetta Throwdown kicks off at 5 p.m. with welcome bites from Marcelli Formaggio and Gimme The Goods, featuring DeNigris Vinegars and Jersey Barnfire Hot Sauce.
At 6 p.m., the porchetta tastings begin. You’ll sample nine chef interpretations and vote for the one that leaves you dreaming of rosemary and crackling skin. An official judges’ panel will weigh in too.
All that flavor needs something to wash it down: Silk City Distillery, Ghost Hawk Brewing, Dirty Pelican Mixers, and Purity Distillery are pouring premium craft sips all evening. And DJ Joey Mazza will keep the vibe high while the pork’s flying.
Winners will be crowned at 9 p.m.—People’s Choice and Judge’s Pick.
Porchetta Throwdown 2025
Date: Monday, June 16. Doors open at 5 p.m. | Porchetta tasting 6–9 p.m.
Location: Gioia Mia Restaurant, 331 Bloomfield Ave., Montclair
Tickets: $150, purchase online here.
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