The Collard Green Cook-Off Championship at Joseph Walker Williams Center is an exciting event where chefs will battle it out using locally sourced ingredients to claim the title of Best Collard Green Chef. The competition includes top chefs such as last year’s winner, Chef Buddah, Tolani Anthony of Zella’s Bakery, chef Bee of Sisters on a Roll, Sean Brumfield, Jasmine Jones of the Flavor Initiative, and chef Moe Vito of a Thoughtful Plate. The event will take place on Thursday, August 15 from 4-7 p.m. at 8431 Rosa Parks in Detroit. In addition to a panel of expert judges, attendees will also have the opportunity to vote for their favorite chef.
If you’re looking for more food-related events to attend, the Melon Festival in Howell is a must-visit. This festival offers a variety of activities such as the 47th annual Howell Melon Run, the Melon Ball, Melon Classic Golf Scramble, cornhole tournament, and a Melon Quest scavenger hunt. The festival runs from Thursday to Sunday in Downtown Howell.
For those craving a variety of delicious food options, the Burgess Street Food Festival at Etheldra Mae Williams Park is the perfect destination. This annual food festival features a range of small businesses offering delectable dishes. Some of the vendors include Greg’s Soul-in-the-Wall, Boss Hoggs’ Barbecue, and Jammin’ Caribbean Fusion. Guests can also enjoy the Brightmoor Sings gospel event from noon-7 p.m. each day. The festival will take place on Saturday and Sunday from noon-8 p.m. at 14300 Burgess in Detroit.
Night owls can satisfy their cravings at the Yaba Late-Night Food Village at the Eastern. This diverse food village offers a variety of local, West African, and island cuisine from 10 a.m. to 4 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The event will be held at 3434 Russell in Detroit with a $2 admission fee.
If you’re a fan of South Asian and West Indian street food, don’t miss the Chutney Festival at the Royal Oak Farmers Market on August 23. This celebration features flavor-packed dishes including spicy, savory, and sweet items. General admission is $3, with VIP experiences available for $60 and up. The market is located at 316 E. 11 Mile in Royal Oak.
Taco lovers should mark their calendars for the Novi Taco Fest at Twelve Mile Crossing. This event will feature taco trucks, Mexican crafts, live music, and contests for pepper eating, taco eating, and cutest dog. The festival will run from August 23 to August 25, with a $10 admission fee per person, per day. Veterans and active duty personnel with ID, as well as children under 3, can enjoy the festival for free. The fest will be held at 44275 W. 12 Mile in Novi.
In addition to these exciting food events, there are also some noteworthy updates in the culinary world. Griffin Claw Brewing Co. has released its popular Screamin’ Pumpkin beer, signaling the arrival of autumn. The brewery is also introducing a special release of Screamin’ Pumpkin whiskey. Detroit City Distillery has added a new bourbon, Two Faced Blended Straight Bourbon, to its permanent lineup. The distillery will be hosting a release party on August 23 at their tasting room in Eastern Market. Born in Detroit Kitchen + Bar is set to open at the McNamara Terminal at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, offering Detroit-centric foods and beverages. New Holland Distilling Co. has opened a new tasting room in Grand Haven, serving flights of spirits, cocktails, canned seltzers, and nonalcoholic beverages. Kids can enjoy a free meal at Lockhart’s BBQ in downtown Royal Oak every Thursday with the purchase of an adult meal.
With so many exciting food events and updates in the culinary scene, there is no shortage of opportunities to indulge in delicious dishes and beverages. Whether you’re a fan of collard greens, melons, street food, or tacos, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the vibrant food scene of Detroit and its surrounding areas. Don’t miss out on these culinary experiences that celebrate local flavors and talent.