2012 New Bedford Seaport Chowder Festival Results

Year after year, I give up time with my family and friends to dedicate myself to the selfless task of being a judge in the New Bedford Seaport Chowder Festival at Custom House Square. It is quite the sacrifice, but it's one that I make for the sake of the community.  Alright, I'll admit it.  I'm going to have to be forcibly removed if they ever try to kick me off of this panel.

Hundreds of people poured into the tent today at Custom House Square to sample the best that America's #1 Seafood Seaport has to offer.  Another job well done by Downtown New Bedford Inc. and all of their volunteers.  The Eagles cover band "Another Tequila Sunrise" and the YMCA lobster races added a nice touch!

The judges...from left to right. Chef (and City Councillor) Henry Bousquet, Michael Rock, Chef Devin Byrnes of Destination Soups.

Best Clam Chowder went to a perennial judges' favorite, but there were a few surprises this year.  Best Quahogs went to not only a new participant in the festival, but a new restaurant overall...a restaurant that has been barely open for business for 3 months!  It was a stunning performance from a rookie restaurant!

The full list of winners (both People's Choice and Judges' picks) are listed below.

JUDGES' CHOICES

Best Clam Chowder:  Me and Ed's, New Bedford

Best Kale Soup:  Mike's Restaurant, Fairhaven

Best Seafood Chowder:  Lafrance Hospitality, New Bedford/Westport

Best Quahogs:  Sail Loft, Padanaram Village

PEOPLE'S CHOICE

Best Clam Chowder: The Pasta House

Best Kale Soup: The Madeira Cafe

Best Seafood Chowder: Freestone's City Grill

Best Quahogs Southcoast Hospitals Group