Cutler Bay's 14th Annual Chili Cook-Off Draws Record Crowd: Winners Announced

Cutler Bay Chili Cook-Off

Last weekend, the Town of Cutler Bay hosted its much-anticipated 14th Annual Chili Cook-Off at Cutler Ridge Park. The event, held on Saturday, January 20, 2024, from 2 PM to 6 PM, drew a staggering crowd of over 6,000 attendees, marking it as the most significant turnout in the history of this beloved community tradition.

The Chili Cook-Off featured an array of exciting activities and attractions. From free chili, salsa, and cornbread samples to an enticing lineup of food trucks and live music by the hometown band, Cutler Stew. The event provided a day full of flavor and entertainment for all. Families enjoyed the Kids Zone, which boasted face painters, inflatables, and talented balloon artists.

The event was honored by the presence of esteemed elected officials, including Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar, District 9 Commissioner Kionne McGhee, State Representative Alina Garcia, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller for Miami-Dade County Juan Fernandez-Barquin, District 9 MDCPD School Board Member Luisa Santos, and the entire Town of Cutler Bay Council. Mayor Meerbott shared, "The Chili Cook-Off has truly become a cornerstone of our community. The record-breaking attendance reflects the spirit of unity that defines Cutler Bay. I'm proud to see our Town come together in such a lively way and showcase the best of our local talent."

2024 Chilli Cook-Off Winners:

Restaurant Division

  • Best Chili: Rodbenders Raw Bar & Grill
  • Best Salsa: Rodbenders Raw Bar & Grill

Best Decorated Booth: Closings and Cornbread

Corn Bread Winners:

  • 3rd Place Corn Bread: O2
  • 2nd Place Corn Bread: Flava Unit
  • 1st Place Corn Bread: Closings and Cornbread

Salsa Winners:

  • 3rd Place Salsa: O2
  • 2nd Place Salsa: The Jerks
  • 1st Place Salsa: Chef Big Ern

Chili Winners

  • 3rd Place Chili: Monster Grass Chain Saw Chili
  • 2nd Place Chili: Sunseeker
  • 1st Place Chili: Mindy's

Fire House Chili: Hialeah Fire Department Local 1102

People's Choice

  • 2nd Place People's Choice Salsa: Comfy Homes
  • 1st Place People's Choice Salsa: Ridge Rats Cutler Bay Firehouse 34
  • 2nd Place People's Choice Chili: Los Furias
  • 1st Place People's Choice Chili: Hialeah Fire Department Local 1102

Cutler Bay's 14th Annual Chili Cook-Off was a resounding success, breaking attendance records and building community spirit. The event not only showcased the culinary talents of participants but also brought together residents, elected officials, and visitors for a day filled with fun, flavor, and friendly competition. As the sun set on Cutler Ridge Park, it left behind a community united by shared experiences and a love for good food and good company. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our generous sponsors, Southern Golfcars, Raising Cane's Cutler Bay, and Cutler Bay Solar Solutions, whose support played a pivotal role in making the 14th Annual Chili Cook-Off a tremendous success.

Check out the event highlights in our photo album here. 

We invite you next month to join us on Friday, February 9, from 6 PM to 10 PM at Cutler Ridge Park for our Food Truck Night. Enjoy a great variety of Food Trucks, music, and kids' activities. Share with friends and family, and don't forget to bring your lawn chairs. 

For inquiries, please contact media@cutlerbay-fl.gov.

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