Twelve leading regional chefs competed for the coveted 4th Annual Mid-North Coast Signature Dish Award at the Final Cook-off held at North Coast Institute of TAFE Port Macquarie campus on Thursday, September 22.
In the running as a finalist were two Port Macquarie chefs Todd Richardson from The Corner Restaurant, Port Macquarie and Chris Macleod from the Restaurant at Cassegrain.
Although not taking out the honours, Todd and Chris were said to have cooked up dishes to die for.
The winner of the Dish Competition was Robert English from AVE Restaurant in Bellingen.
The Rydges People’s Choice Award went to Kien Nguyen from Rendezvous Brasserie in the CEX Coffs Harbour.
“The Signature Dish Awards not only bring together some of the region’s best chefs but are also integral in promoting the range of fresh produce and fine foods grown and made throughout the region,” said Mid-North Coast Tourism Executive Officer, Ms Belinda Novicky.
“The number one activity for tourists in any region is the food and wine and how those key elements portray the unique character of our region,” she said.
“This competition is proving an effective and positive influence among chefs to support and highlight fresh local ingredients in their cafes and restaurants.” she said.
