SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. -- Each year chowder lovers flood the streets of Saratoga Springs for the annual Chowderfest.
“We’ve got a shrimp, mussel, chorizo and clam chowder. A little bit of smoked paprika,” said Braden Reardon, Salt & Char executive chef.
“It’s good to see everybody come out and tolerate the weather for good chowder,” said Emily Ofiara.
It’s a tradition for many and a new adventure for others.
“I've been coming for at least five or six years. I collect the shirts and the hats every year and I collect the chowder,” said Joe Glickman.
“I’m from Singapore and I’ve literally flown halfway around the world to come to the Saratoga Chowderfest,” said Mark Nerney.
There are chowders to satisfy just about anyone’s taste buds.
“I love the buffalo chicken chowder and the New England clam. Anything with bacon in it is perfect,” said Glickman.
The votes may differ, but chowder fans agree there’s no place like Saratoga’s Chowderfest.
“We’re all just here for one reason, it’s because we love Saratoga and we love our community and we love celebrating all the restaurants,” said Jessica Shaver.
With more than 86 participants, 120,000 bowls of chowder, 35,000 people on the streets and 1,1000 votes online, the votes have been tallied.
And the winners are:
People’s Choice: Thirsty Owl Bistro, seafood chowder
Best On Broadway: Thirsty Owl Bistro, seafood chowder
Best Off Broadway: Gaffney's Restaurant, Southwest shrimp corn chowder
Best Non-Downtown: PJ's Bar-B-QSA, veggie corn chowder with optional choice of BBQ meat
Best Newcomer: Dunning Street Station Bar & Grill, shrimp and lobster chowder
Best Dessert Chowder: Sweet Mimi's