Red, white, and beans: a recap of 2011's Lone Star Chili Cook-Off

As Texas ex-pats, there is one particular event in NYC that unites us each May: the annual Lone Star Chili Cook-Off, set amidst 230 Fifth Avenue's lush and beautiful rooftop terrace.  Presented by the New York Texas Exes and the New York A&M Club, the proceeds from this sold-out fiesta benefit each organization's respective scholarship fund.

For the past three years, I've had the honor and privilege of being selected to judge this delicious affair.  Here's a list of who else accompanied me at this year's "chili-tasting" table:  

• Joaquin Baca
• Lori Bolding  Associate Director of Development, UT Austin
• Moira Campbell
• Matt Dunning  journalist
• Jeff Holmes
• Bruce Sterman  owner/founder of Manhattan Chili Co.
• Anne Thornton
• Meena Thronkompola  sous chef, Nobu 57

The judges~

Please enjoy some of my favorite snapshots from the judge's table at the 18th annual Lone Star Chili Cook-Off.  Until next year, y'all!

Check out their mascot, "CHILI SHEEN!" Loved this.

I'm not sure who this girl is, but I love this picture. It's so random - feminine - fun - and funny.A nice lil' scenic shot for y'all..."More Cowbell" always takes home one of the top 3 prizesA chili collage

~~~

Until we eat again,

The Lunch Belle