Chowdafest | An Annual Celebration of Chowder in Westport, Connecticut
Held each October in Westport, Connecticut, Chowdafest celebrates the delicious diversity of chowder.
By Jessica Gordon Ryan|Oct 12 2016|
Confident Chowder Contestants – Smithsonian Chowder House, Hatfield MA.
Credit: Jessica Gordon RyanCredit: Jessica Gordon Ryan It was a spectacular day, overcast with a slight chill coming off the Long Island Sound — the type of day best suited for a warm, comforting bowl of clam chowder. I was delighted to attend the 10th Annual Chowdafest, “New England’s Best Chowder & Soup Competition,” last year at the beautiful Sherwood Island State Park in Westport, Connecticut. When Yankee Magazine declares it a Top Event of the Season, attendees know they’re in for some serious chowder — the crème de la crème, (cream de la cream?) of course.
The New England Chowdafest Badge, or helmet, of honor!
Credit: Jessica Gordon RyanCredit: Jessica Gordon Ryan
4 legged friends enjoy Chowdafest as well!
Credit: Jessica Gordon RyanCredit: Jessica Gordon Ryan Chowdafest offers up a unique twist, recognizing that chowder comes in many shapes and forms, from the traditional New England style to the tomato-based Manhattan to clear broth-based style, as well as the more creative varieties of soups and bisques. Each year, 40 restaurants participate, from Seattle to the Empire State, as well as the New England states. Upon entry, guests are handed a spoon and a ballot sheet on which each restaurant is listed, along with its chowder or soup. Each soup is then given a score from 7 – 10.5, with 10.5 being the absolute best. Among a sea of fabulous chowders, there were those who stood out from the rest by offering unique ingredients, interesting flavors, and twists.
Our House.
Credit: Jessica Gordon Ryan
How much are the tickets ???
Way way overpriced for tiny little sample cups you’ll leave there starving. Good luck waiting on line with the other thousands of thousands of people competing to get their samples