Chefs Challenge for Challenge Mountain

4/23/10 to 4/24/10

Showcasing the best Chefs in the state of Michigan.  If you're looking for a fun-filled, exciting event don’t miss the 3rd Annual Chefs Challenge for Challenge Mountain, April 23-24.

Chef Teams from northern and southern Michigan present the state's great agricultural diversity at its succulent finest, complimented by fine Michigan wines and micro-brews, a true premier Michigan event.  Weekend events includes exciting seminars, culinary exhibits and three chef competitions along with great fine and wine.  This year’s celebrity judges are Chef Michelle Bommarito, Chef Hermann Suhs, Chef Angus Campbell, Chef Rob Haney, Barb Tholin and Ruth Mossok Johnston.  VIEW EVENT ITINERARY.  

Judging takes place in two separate events:

Tasting: Chefs, micro brewers, vintners and spirits distillers are judged by a team of celebrity judges and the public
Iron Chef Cook-Off: A battle between the winning teams from the north and south during a gourmet four-course dinner

The tasting portion is from 11 am - 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 24 in the Civic Center.  Cost is $25 for eight tickets good towards food and beverage tastings.  Additional tickets can be purchased in quantities of four for $15 or eight for $25.  Entry/tickets can be purchased at the door.   VIEW CHEF TEAMS.   VIEW BREWERIES, WINERIES AND DISTILLERIES.

The Iron Chef Cook-Off and Dinner also happens on Saturday beginning at 6 p.m.  Tickets are $100 and include a mouthwatering four-course dinner prepared by Chef Jeff Minkwic of Boyne Mountain and two beverages, while guests enjoy watching the final cook-off between the winning chef teams. 

Dinner menu:

• Course #1: Garlic and Tomato Braised Pork Shank with Hot Pickled Vegetables
• Course #2: Arugula and Pear Salad with Pistachios, Gorgonzola, Prosciutto and Port Wine Vinaigrette
• Course #3: Pan Seared Breast of Chicken with Asparagus and Crabmeat Topped with Hollandaise and served over Wild Mushroom Couscous
• Course #4: Chocolate Hazelnut Truffle Loaf with Raspberry Coulis

Reservations for dinner are limited and should be made in advance by calling Challenge Mountain at 231-582-1186. 

Free seminars are scheduled on Saturday and hosted by the celebrity judges and other special guests.  The schedule includes:

• 9 a.m.-9:45 a.m.: Investigating the Michigan Mezzo Table
  Presented by Chef Angus Campbell
• 9:45 a.m.-10:45 a.m.: The 8 Steps to Taking Care of You Bommarito Style
  Presented by Chef Michelle Bommarito
• 2 p.m.-2:45 p.m.: Feed Me Heartfully
  Presented by Ruth Mossok Johnston
• 2:45 p.m.-3:30 p.m.: Food for Thought on Food Preservation, Canning and Organic
  Presented by Tim Young
• 2:45 p.m.-3:30 p.m.: Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about Maple Syrup and Collection
  Presented by Grant Woods
• 4 p.m.-4:45 p.m.: Pairing of Wines
  Presented by Sommelier, Ed Brehm
• 4 p.m.-4:45 p.m.:  Micro-Brewing
  Presented by John Leonardo of Motor City Brewing
• 4:45 p.m.-5:30 p.m.: The Ins and Outs of Vodka Distillery
  Presented by Rafino Valentine of Valentine Vodka

Special lodging rates are offered on April 23 and 24 including the Clock Tower Lodge for $67 per night and $118 per night for the luxurious Mountain Grand Lodge and Spa.  For lodging reservations, please call 800.GO.BOYNE (462-6963). 

For additional event information, please visit www.chefs-challenge.com.

Event poster.

All Chefs Challenge proceeds go to help Challenge Mountain, the nation’s only adaptive recreational facility dedicated exclusively to people with special needs. 100% of all donated dollars go directly to Challenge Mountain programs.