Kelli’s Chowderfest 2017 Recap
By: Kelli Whitman
On Saturday, February 4th I made my first appearance at the renowned Chowderfest in Saratoga Springs. I will definitely have to start making this an annual trip. Hundreds of people flooded the streets as over 80 vendors put their own chowder on display. The very best chowder samples in the county were put up against each other and let me tell you; all the samples I tasted were insanely delicious. I don’t know how anyone could pick a favorite!
Lines formed outside each establishment with people waiting, spoons in hand, until the line quickly passed. Each sample only cost one dollar and the serving size was perfect. Many restaurants took it to the next level and topped the chowder with their very own signature. Some of my favorites were chicken corn chowder topped with a chicken wing, and creamy lobster bisque topped with pulled pork and a piece of fried corn bread. I’m getting hungry just thinking about it. At the end of the day, people voted in a variety of categories to find the winners. This year the “People’s Choice” award went to Thirsty Owl Bistro for their seafood chowder.
If you haven’t had a chance to attend a Chowderfest, I would definitely recommend it. It was a great day filled with family, friends, and some of the best chowder I have ever had! See some of my favorites pictured below.