Sweet Grown Alabama Brings Flavor to the Coast for 11th Annual Seafood Cook-Off at The Wharf
May 4, 2026
Get ready for a little friendly competition and a whole lot of fresh flavor. Sweet Grown Alabama is bringing the 11th Annual Seafood Cook-Off back to the coast on Monday, May 18, at The Wharf in Orange Beach.
Four standout Alabama chefs will take the stage, each putting their own spin on Alabama Gulf seafood in a fast-paced, flavor-packed competition. This year’s lineup includes:
- Chef C.R. “Robbie” Nicolaisen of The Hound in Auburn
- Chef Chris Ippolito of Cayo Coco Rum Bar & Restaurant in Birmingham
- Chef Emilio Urban of Coastal Restaurant in Orange Beach
- Chef Jason McGarry of Central in Montgomery
Learn more about these chefs and read their bios at SweetGrownAlabama.org.
From coastal classics to creative new dishes, each chef will showcase the versatility of Alabama seafood using fresh, local ingredients. Judges will have the tough job of choosing a winner based on taste, presentation and creativity — not an easy task with this lineup. Along with a $2,500 cash prize and plaque, the winning chef will go on to represent Alabama at the nationally acclaimed Great American Seafood Cook-Off in New Orleans.
“The Seafood Cook-Off is one of those events where you can truly feel the pride in Alabama agriculture and seafood,” said Ellie Watson, director of Sweet Grown Alabama. “It’s competitive, yes, but it’s also fun and full of moments that remind you how lucky we are to have access to this kind of local abundance.”
Returning to the event in a new role is last year’s champion, Ben Rosen, who will join the judging panel.
“I’m excited to trade my apron for a seat at the judges’ table this year,” said Rosen. “This event brings out the best in Alabama chefs, and I can’t wait to see what they come up with. I know it’s going to be a great show, and some seriously good food.”
As anticipation builds for May 18, Sweet Grown Alabama encourages everyone to come ready to cheer on their favorite chef team. The event is free and open to the public, beginning at 6:00 p.m., offering guests an evening filled with coastal flavor, friendly competition and community celebration.
“Make a night of it,” Watson said. “I always recommend arriving early to enjoy the shops at The Wharf before heading down to Tee Off Restaurant for the cook-off. At 6:00 p.m., come watch the chefs in action, hear the stories behind Alabama’s farms and fisheries, and enjoy the event with our emcee Jim Cox guiding the fun.”
For more information about the Seafood Cook-Off and other Sweet Grown Alabama events, visit SweetGrownAlabama.org.