This might be the most Maine way to spend an afternoon this month: eating lobster and helping decide which local chef deserves bragging rights.
The Maine Lobster Chef of the Year competition is coming to Portland on October 16 as part of Harvest on the Harbor. Guests can sample competing chefs’ lobster dishes and help choose the People’s Choice winner, while judges select their own top pick. So yes, your opinion actually counts!
A Little Friendly Competition, a Lot of Lobster
The lineup includes chefs from Maine restaurants like Central Provisions, Sur Lie, The Knotted Apron, Twelve, and Natalie’s at Camden Harbour Inn, along with a team from SMCC Culinary Arts.
Guests can visit each chef’s station and sample their creations at their own pace. I love that you can try several different takes on lobster in one afternoon instead of picking just one dish from a menu. Although choosing a favorite might be the hardest part.
It’s also a chance to discover a restaurant you haven’t tried yet. If a chef’s dish becomes your favorite bite of the afternoon, you might leave with your next dinner spot already picked out.
A Delicious Reason to Head to Portland
Doors open at 12:30 p.m. at Maine Studio Works, located at 170 Anderson Street in Portland. Offerings include drinks, Coffee By Design coffee, and Kittylamb brownies. Lobster followed by brownies? I’m listening.
The competition is for ages 21 and older. Tickets must be purchased in advance through Harvest on the Harbor.
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Dining and Cooking