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Men Who Cook 2023: The Culinary Showdown Returns to River Oaks

02 May 2023

Men Who Cook 2023: The Culinary Showdown Returns to River Oaks

Every year in May, Central Louisiana eagerly awaits the return of one of its favorite annual fundraisers, Men Who Cook and Men Who Mix at River Oaks. This year's event is set to take place on May 20, 2023, from 6:30 to 9:30 pm. A sold-out event in previous years, this gastronomic spectacle brings together amateur chefs and mixologists from across the region, all vying for the coveted Men Who Cook Trophy and, equally or even more important, the bragging rights that come with it. The event is sponsored by Alexandria Emergency Hospital, Red River Bank, and CHRISTUS Central Louisiana Surgical Hospital.

“Our chefs and mixologists invest countless hours perfecting their dishes and cocktails, all in the name of friendly competition and, of course, to support River Oaks," says Rachael Dauzat, Executive Director at River Oaks. "It's always thrilling to see the creativity and passion these talented individuals bring to the table."

With the event drawing closer, anticipation is palpable among contestants. One enthusiastic participant reveals, "We've been preparing for this year's Men Who Cook since the last one ended. We've experimented with numerous flavor combinations and techniques, looking for that one special ingredient that makes it a showstopper. We’ll need bigger tip jars when people taste this dish!"

The winner of the overall trophy is determined by the total amount of tips each team receives by the end of the competition. Each visitor is encouraged to bring lots of dollar bills to tips their favorite chefs, and in the past, some dishes are rumored to have earned the occasional twenty. A secret judge’s choice will also be up for grabs, chosen by one of the area's most experienced eaters said to eat an average of over three meals a day.

As always, the trophies remain the center of attention. This year's Champion Trophy and People's Choice award are designed by talented local artist and River Oaks Artistic Director Aubrey Bolen, celebrating the spirit of creativity and community that characterizes Men Who Cook.

The 2023 Men Who Cook event promises to be a gastronomic extravaganza, featuring an impressive lineup of over 25 teams showcasing their culinary prowess. From traditional Southern comfort food to innovative gourmet dishes, the competition is guaranteed to be fierce and flavorful.

This year’s chefs are:

David Broussard, Toby Wilkins & Richard Chatman - Team Pineapple Express
Bradley Perkins, John Maxey & Daniel McGuffee - Team Red River Bank
Randall Welch, Craig Littleton & Micah Walker - Team Southern Heritage Bank
Matt Mabou, Wade Phillips & Ryan Welch - Team MSquared Entertainment
Scott Fazzio, Brett Viator, Ted Bauman & William Weaver - Team CLECO
Grant Bartlett, Brandon Andrus & Dr. Aaron McLemore - Team Mud Dogs
Michael Guillory, Jacob Hebert & Lynn Aymond - Team Central LA Surgical Hospital ~ Tres Amigos
Chris Soprano & Rick Ducote - Team Honorable Mention
Michael Dauzat & Wayne Lajaunie - Team Mirage Luxury Pools & Cajun Inlaws
Matthew David Morgan & Jeffrey Morse - Team Bentley Room Dining
Danny Mays, Stephen Brooks, Brett Butler & Kenny Washington - Team Diamond Grill
Davy Jones IV & Adam Huddleston -Team Jones Law Partners
Shane Lemoine & Cody Bordelon - Team United Automation & HD Seamless Gutters
Lance Dauzat & Team - Eagle Eye Security Systems
Shane Lajaunie & Jay Molinary - Team RES - Ecological Restoration
Tobias Wilhelm & Chad Ruiz - Team Captivate Minds Marketing
Tim Cahill & Rocco Guirlando - Team LANP - LA Association of Nurse Practitioners
Alex Porras, Tommy Cupples & Nick Williams - Team Canterbury House
Nolan Spillers, Chaston Price & Regan Chenevert - Team First Guaranty Bank
Dr. Jamie Rister, Bradley Foster, Troy Mire & Chad Jamison - Team Green Hot Chili Peppers / Mid State Orthopaedic
Dennis Wimmert, Matt Purser & Jon Doggett - Team Crest Industries
Taylor Moore, Caleb Stark & Marcus Walker - Team Brisket Bros
Dr. Keith Moffit, Adam Roes, and Dr. Marcus Brown - Team Alexandria Emergency Hospital
Tyler Pitka, Jarrell Moss & Collin McElroy - Team Mickeys Red Kettle
Shannon Parker, Will Hoffner & Chris Brewer - Team Delectable Daddies of Bottom's Up Club
Dr. Johnthan Hunter, Tom Spencer, Ken Brown, Brad Drell & Jarrod King - Team Lagniappe Home Care

Tickets for Men Who Cook 2023 are expected to sell out quickly, so don't miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable culinary celebration. Secure your spot for May 20, 2023, from 6:30 to 9:30 pm at River Oaks, and prepare your taste buds for an evening of delectable delights and spirited competition. Tickets are $70 per person / $75 at the door (if available). Tickets are available via EventBrite or any River Oaks Board Member.

Co-sponsors are:

Louisiana Seafood
Alexandria/Pineville CVB
SAMS HVAC Services
The Bentley Hotel
Doug Young Nursery
Southern Heritage Bank
Drs. Sara Kelly & Dan Oas
Michelle & Chris Karam
Dr. & Mrs. Michael J. Leddy, III
Dr. Will  & Martha Crenshaw       
Turner Teleco - Alexandria
Cunningham Business Systems
Performance Food Service 

Event Partners:

Jack’s & Bayou Mosquito 

For more information, call River Oaks at 318-473-2670, visit RiverOaksArtsCenter.com or find us on Facebook under River Oaks Square Arts Center.

Bon appetit.

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