Local Chefs Compete in 4th Annual Downriver Cook Off

The fourth Annual Downriver Cook Off delighted local foodies Sunday with some of the area's best restaurants and chefs competing for top honors.

The top three restaurants were all from Wyandotte, and all three opened their doors in the city just this summer.

First place went to Magdaleno, which opened only a month ago at 152 Elm. The restaurant served four pasta dishes, including house specialties Penne all' Arrabbiata and Cavatelli Funghi. Chef Ernesto Magdaleno Guzman was presented with brand new grill for taking first place.

Second place went to Bourbon's Restaurant and Bar, which opened in Wyandotte this past July. Its award-winning dish was the Jumbalaya. 

Third place went to the oldest restaurant of the three (only by a month), Axe n Ladder Deli, which opened this June. The restaurant served the judges its popular sandwich, the Young (#4 on their menu), which includes turkey, pepperoni, provolone, lettuce, tomato and ranch on italian bread, and fresh-cut french fries.

Other restaurants in the competition included Tijuana's Mexican Kitchen and Smokey Rhodes BBQ. 

Presented by Loor Productions, the cook off was held behind Belicoso Cigar Bar, which hosted the event. Attendees enjoyed fare from local food vendors as well as a selection of local merchants selling jewelry, accessories and more.

Seven restaurants participated in the competition, judged by a panel of VIPs including Michael Skupin of Survivor fame, DeAndre Hubbard of Parking Wars, and Chauncy Glover from Channel 4 News. Based on the judges' votes, the top 3 restaurants were awarded. An award was also present to the crowd favorite retail booth.

In addition to delicious food, cold drinks, and shopping, guests enjoyed the sounds of the D Tour band, which played a variety of old and new hits.