Settlers Hospitality Annual Chili and Wing Cookoff

The Waterfront at Silver Birches puts two classic American dishes on the front burner for a good cause. The Annual Chili and Wing Cookoff on Sunday, March 2 from noon-4 p.m., pits over 20 of the best chefs from area restaurants, schools and organizations in a culinary showdown. Contestants vie for the title of Best Chili and Wings. Proceeds from the family-friendly event benefit Settlers Cares Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to providing aid to hospitality workers in times of crisis.

Participating restaurants include Cove Haven Resort, Gresham’s Chop House, Ben’s Fresh, Barley Creek Brewing Company, The Chestnut Inn, Frogtown Chophouse, John’s Italian Restaurant and The Dock on Wallenpaupack. Talented home chefs will also join the competition. Contestants get creative with their recipes, offering attendees a variety of flavors to sample. Previous year’s entries have included wing creations such as Kickin’ Bourbon Barrel, Chili Lime, Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Habanero, Garlic Parmesan Caramel Sesame and Spicy Asian. The chili competition has seen offerings such as Wagu Beef, Bison Bourbon, Smoky Texas Bison, Chocolate Barbecue Brisket and Wild Game. Celebrity guest judge, Bold Gold Media DJ Adam Owens, is a cooking enthusiast who brings his passion for food, and eating, to help size up the competition. He joins a panel of judges who will select the winners. In addition to bragging rights, first place winners receive a $100 cash prize and a trophy. Second and third place winners also take home a trophy. Everyone who attends gets a ballot for the People’s Choice Award and a chance to vote for their favorite dishes. The coveted title also brings a $100 cash prize for the winners plus trophies for first, second and third place.

A ticket entitles guests to sample each of the wing and chili offerings. Tickets are $30 per person and $15 for children ages 5-10. Silver Birches not only hosts the savory competition but also supplies each participant with 80 pounds of wings and all the cups, plates, spoons, napkins, and wet naps necessary for service, at no charge. All proceeds from the Cookoff benefit the Settlers Cares Foundation, which aids local hospitality employees in times of crisis. “It’s really gratifying to see the way the community has embraced this event. Folks look forward to it all year long as a staple of spring. It’s tasty food and a fun atmosphere to raise funds for a worthy cause. You can’t beat it,” explains Settlers Hospitality Owner/CEO Justin Genzlinger.

Attendees may buy a chance for a 50/50 raffle, which will also aid the hospitality employee crisis fund. The Jae Thomas Trio will provide the musical entertainment for the day.

Settlers Hospitality, Bold Gold Media Group, and Runaway Train Brewery sponsor the Chili and Wing Cookoff. Tickets are $30 and are available online and at the door. Call 570-226-4388 for more information or visit SilverBirchesResortPA.com