The Golden Abe’s Food Contest took place Friday at the Illinois State Fair. The contest consisted of three categories, including Savory, Sweet, Non-Alcoholic drink, as well as a Notable Newcomer award. Contestants were judged on Creativity, Taste, and Presentation. Preliminary judging was done by Chris Hanken ,Sapori Pizzeria & Italian Market /Owner Patsy Wappel, SIU Medicine/Director of Development, Tim Timoney, Pao and The Corner Pub & Grill/Owner Katie Madonia, State of Illinois Comptroller’s Office , Hallie Piercall, Darcy’s Pint/Owner, Lori Coffey, Saputo’s/Papa Frank’s , Julie Roland, Roland Machinery, Kirsten Kienzler, Kerber, Eck, and Braeckel/Partner, Linsday Levi, Levi, Ray, and Shoup , Kelly Mizeur, Hickory Point Bank , Josh Roberts, Operations Manager/Woodward Community Media, and Lou Bart , YMCA/Director of Marketing, Communications, & Community Engagement.
The winner in the Sweet category was the Dubai Strawberry Cup from Tikka Street. The Savory category was won by Backdraft BBQ with their Brisket Cheesesteak. The best Non-Alcoholic Drink win went to Miss Peggy’s Food Service for their Orange Strawberry Shakeup. Notable Newcomer was also the Brisket Cheesesteak from Backdraft BBQ. The overall Golden Abe’s winner was a tie between Backdraft BBQ and Tikka Street
Judges in the final included State Fair Queen Krista Phillips, Doris Turner, Illinois State Senator/48th District, Misty Buscher, Mayor/Springfield, IL, and Rebecca Clark, Illinois State Fair Manager. Winners of Golden Abe’s Food Contest receive a cash prize. The People’s Choice award of the fair will be chosen via an online contest hosted by Woodward Community Media’s Website
