Last night was one of my personal favorite annual events because it’s so crazy, fun, and by far the best reason is that it’s a fundraiser to benefit the culinary school at Metropolitan Ministries. This was the 5th year for the Tampa Bay Food Fight, this year hosted at the Seminole Hard Rock Casino and Hotel. This event brings together all the best restaurants both both side of the bay and the best of the best battle it out for team Tampa and Team St. Pete. Team Tampa was led by captain Chef Taro Larrea, who is Executive Chef and partner at Eddie V’s Tampa. Team St. Pete was led by captain Chef Joshua Breen - Annata Wine Bar.

Team St. Pete was on a winning streak the last several years and thankfully (I am a Tampanian:-) Team Tampa brought home the win!! Mayor Jane Castor and Mayor Rick Kriseman were there to cheer on their cities and Mayor Castor was beyond happy to bring that trophy back to Tampa!!

SO many people, companies, and restaurants come together each year to make this event possible. Hosting this year were WWE superstars Titus O’Neil and Natalya Neidhart, Ring Commentator, Jenni Neidhart, Honorary Chairman, Ali Marpet - Tampa Bay Bucs Offensive Guard. Celebrity judges were Norman Van Aken, Adrienne Gang, Joe Isidori, and Lee Ann Whippen. Chief of all details and planning Brooke Palmer - RSBP events.

Here’s a little taste of what it was like this year!!! Congratulations team Tampa!!!!