Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Sweet Grown Alabama Seafood Cook-Off drew a large crowd to The Wharf for a night celebrating Alabama seafood and the people who help produce it. The event honored chefs, fishermen, farmers, and other producers from across the state.

Chefs competed by preparing dishes that showcased seafood from Alabama waters, giving attendees a chance to see culinary talent up close while highlighting the local industry behind it.

Competitors in this year’s Alabama Seafood Cook-Off at The Wharf were Chef Chris Ippolito, executive chef at Cayo Coco in Birmingham; Chef Jason McGarry of Central in Montgomery; Executive Chef C.R. “Robbie” Nicolaisen, who previously led culinary operations at The Hound and has recently launched The Chubby Belly Noodle Shop; and Chef Emilio Urban, one of the chefs in charge at Coastal Orange Beach.

The winning team was The Hound and Chef Robbie Nicolaisen, who took home the $2,500 grand prize donated by Eat Alabama Wild Seafood. Nicolaisen competed alongside sous chef Gabe Atkinson. Their win also earned them the right to represent Alabama at the Great American Seafood Cook-Off on July 25 in New Orleans.

Organizers said, “What an incredible night at the Sweet Grown Alabama Seafood Cook-Off at The Wharf!” They added, “Thank you to everyone who came out to support Alabama seafood, cheer on our talented chefs and celebrate the hardworking farmers, fishermen and producers who make it all possible.”

A special thank-you was also extended to judges Kathleen Phillips, Ben Rosen, and Jonathan Harrison, as well as to sponsors and event partners who helped make the evening a success.