There’s no better way to celebrate the launch of a new Local Profile magazine than by enjoying an unforgettable evening filled with exceptional food, drinks and the company of some great folks.
Tre Cooking Concepts — led by the legendary Chef Tre Wilcox of Top Chef, Iron Chef America and James Beard nominee — hosted Local Profile's cover party on Jan 22. 2025, — with just the right amount of kitchen drama.
The event began with guests enjoying mouthwatering sliders, paired with wine and beer, as they mingled and made new connections. But the highlight of the evening was a high-stakes cooking challenge. Local chefs divided attendees into three groups to compete for the title of the best dish, prepared in just 45 minutes.
The catch? The chefs couldn’t do the cooking themselves. Instead, they coached their teams — composed of Local Profile guests — through the process, offering tasting notes and instructions. To make things even more exciting, participants had to incorporate surprise ingredients, including applesauce, green beans, canned tomatoes and shredded potatoes, all while racing against the clock.
Time flew by, and soon the judges were ready to score dish on taste, creativity, ingredient use and presentation. While every group delivered impressive results, only one could emerge victorious. Last year’s winner, Ryan Oruch, head chef and co-owner at Sea Breeze Fish Market & Grill and The Wilfred, was dethroned. Chef Rodman Shields of The Common Table and Milkshake Concepts claimed a close second place, with the difference only being a few points.
The top honor went to chef Rocky Lavalais, the first Certified Louisiana and Certified Cajun Chef outside of Louisiana, solidifying his reputation as a culinary innovator and saying, “You’re only as good as your team.”
Local Profile thanks chef Wilcox for hosting, the three talented chefs for their insightful instruction and all the guests for making the evening truly unforgettable.
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