7 Secrets Behind Long Beach Island's New Chowder Cook-Off: Dates, Winners, And The Battle Of Red Vs. White
The annual Long Beach Island (LBI) Chowder competition is back for 2025, but with a new name and a refined focus that is thrilling seafood lovers and culinary tourists across the Jersey Shore. As of December 23, 2025, the highly anticipated event—now officially known as the Beach Haven Chowder Cook-Off & Merchant Mart—is set to take place the weekend before Columbus Day, continuing a tradition that has spanned over three decades.
The Cook-Off is no longer the sprawling, multi-week "Chowder Trail" of recent years. Instead, organizers have returned to a high-energy, centralized, two-day format that culminates in a fierce, live competition for the coveted Red and White Chowder trophies. This deep dive covers everything you need to know about the 2025 event, from the dates and location to the most recent champions and the intense rivalry between New England and Manhattan styles.
The Evolution of LBI's Chowder Tradition: From Fest to Cook-Off
The history of LBI’s signature culinary event is a story of community, competition, and clams. It all began in 1989, and for over 34 years, the event, originally championed by the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce, grew into a world-famous "Chowderfest Weekend" attracting tens of thousands of visitors to the barrier island.
The event’s enduring popularity is rooted in its simple, delicious premise: local restaurants compete to prove they have the best clam chowder in New Jersey, with attendees serving as the judges. In recent years, the format shifted to a self-guided "Chowder Trail" which allowed patrons to sample soups at various restaurants over several weeks. However, the latest iteration signals a return to the high-energy, centralized format that made the event famous.
Why the Name Changed: The Beach Haven Chowder Cook-Off
The most significant recent change is the transition from "Chowderfest" to the "Beach Haven Chowder Cook-Off & Merchant Mart." This updated format is a collaboration between the Beach Haven Chamber of Commerce and The Hunger Foundation of Southern Ocean County, focusing the event back on its roots as a two-day celebration of local cuisine and community spirit.
The organizers have worked to ensure the spirit of the original festival remains, bringing back the intense, head-to-head competition and the vibrant atmosphere of the Merchant Mart, which features local vendors, live music, and family entertainment. The Cook-Off Classic itself is the centerpiece, where the best of LBI's chefs battle it out for bragging rights and the ultimate chowder title.
- Original Start Date: 1989
- Original Organizer: Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce
- Current Organizers: Beach Haven Chamber of Commerce & The Hunger Foundation of Southern Ocean County
- New Format: Centralized two-day event (Merchant Mart & Cook-Off Classic)
- Location Hub: Taylor Avenue, Beach Haven, NJ
The Ultimate Guide to the 2025 Beach Haven Chowder Cook-Off
The 2025 event is gearing up to be one of the most exciting iterations yet, consolidating the tasting experience into a single, high-energy weekend. It is the perfect opportunity for foodies to experience the unique flavor of LBI's culinary scene and support local businesses as the summer season winds down.
Key 2025 Dates and Schedule
Mark your calendars for the official start of the fall season on Long Beach Island. The event is traditionally held the weekend before the Columbus Day holiday weekend.
- Official 2025 Weekend: Saturday, October 4th & Sunday, October 5th, 2025
- Saturday Event: Merchant Mart (Featuring local vendors, food, and music)
- Sunday Event: Chowder Cook-Off Classic (The main tasting and judging competition)
- Location: Taylor Avenue, Beach Haven, NJ
The Merchant Mart on Saturday offers a fantastic way to kick off the weekend, with local businesses showcasing their goods and services. The main event, the Cook-Off Classic on Sunday, is where the real action happens. Attendees purchase tickets to sample the competing chowders and cast their votes for the champions in the Red and White categories.
Ticket Information and Pricing
While official 2025 ticket details are finalized closer to the date, the general admission for the Cook-Off Classic is typically around $35, which includes all the chowder samples you can taste. It is highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance, as the event is a massive draw, often bringing in thousands of hungry tasters.
The Cook-Off is a rain or shine event, and the competition is fierce, regardless of the weather. The proceeds from the event often benefit local charities, such as The Hunger Foundation of Southern Ocean County, adding a philanthropic layer to the culinary fun.
The Fierce Competition: Red vs. White Chowder Champions
The heart of the Beach Haven Chowder Cook-Off is the intense, year-long battle for the Red and White Chowder trophies. The competition is decided by the attendees' votes, making it a true People’s Choice award.
Understanding the Chowder Categories
The competition is split into two main divisions, reflecting the most popular styles of clam chowder:
- White Chowder (New England Style): This is the classic, thick, creamy, and milky-white chowder made with a cream or milk base, clams, and potatoes. It is the most common and arguably the most beloved style in the Northeast.
- Red Chowder (Manhattan Style): This style is characterized by its clear, tomato-based broth. It is thinner than its New England counterpart and often includes other vegetables, giving it a distinct, savory flavor.
A third, less common style, Rhode Island Chowder, sometimes makes an appearance. It is a clear-broth chowder that omits the cream of the New England style and the tomatoes of the Manhattan style, focusing purely on the flavor of the clams and broth.
The Reigning Champions: Who to Watch in 2025
To gain topical authority and a competitive edge, you must know the restaurants that have dominated the competition in the most recent years. The most recent Cook-Off crowned two outstanding champions, setting the stage for a dramatic rematch in 2025.
White Chowder Champion: Country Kettle Chowda
Country Kettle Chowda, a staple in Beach Haven, has consistently proven its mastery of the creamy, classic New England style. Their recipe is a must-try for any first-time attendee, as they look to defend their title in the highly competitive White Chowder category.
Red Chowder Champion: Wally's
Wally's of Surf City took home the trophy for the Red Chowder division in the most recent competition. Their Manhattan-style chowder is known for its robust, tomato-rich flavor that stands up to the intense scrutiny of thousands of hungry judges.
Other Key Competitors and Entities
The field of competitors is always strong, ensuring a diverse and delicious tasting experience. Look out for these other LBI culinary entities who have historically participated or are expected to compete for the 2025 titles:
- Buckalew's Restaurant & Tavern
- La Bamba Mexican Restaurant
- Lefty's Tavern
- Lighthouse Restaurant & Grill
- Panzone's Pizza & Pasta
- The Chicken or the Egg (Chegg)
- Element Restaurant
- Dolce Liberta
- Isola Restaurant
The 2025 Beach Haven Chowder Cook-Off & Merchant Mart promises a weekend of unforgettable flavors, community fun, and the continuation of a cherished LBI tradition. Whether you prefer the creamy richness of New England White or the zesty tang of Manhattan Red, this is the ultimate destination to satisfy your clam chowder cravings.
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