GULF SHORES, Ala - The 4th Annual Shrimp Festival Chef Challenge is just around the corner!

This annual event, presented by Zatarain's was developed to showcase the culinary talent that can be found along our beautiful gulf coast. Entering its fourth year, the event has spotlighted some of the exquisite culinary techniques of the top Chefs in this area.

That's not surprising, after all Gulf Shores is home to one of the best culinary colleges around, The Gulf Coast Culinary Institute at Faulkner State Community College. Winners of the Challenge have benefited from the  exposure gained through the competition, and the bragging rights don't hurt either.

The cook-off will be held at Faulkner on Sept. 7-9 but is not open to the public.

The 2010 winner, Leck Labron Lilayuva with Big Fish Grille in Orange Beach said, "We pride ourselves in being the first place champions of the 2010 Shrimp Festival Chef Challenge."

And the coveted trophy is proudly displayed in the restaurant for all patrons to admire.

The Challenge is preceded by live remote tastings at competing restaurants. The live remotes are sponsored by Sunny 105.7 FM. These events allow the public to get a sampling of the dish the Chef has chosen to cook for the

Challenge. 

Everyone is invited to join us as we announce the winners on Sept. 15 at The Hangout. The Chef Challenge is open to restaurant or catering members of the Alabama Gulf Coast Area Chamber of Commerce.

The Shrimp Festival Chef Challenge is presented by Zatarain's and sponsored in part by Faulkner State Community College, Organized Seafood Association, and Royal Prestige.  For more information, please visit www.alagulfcoastchamber.com or call 251-968-6091.