The Mobile chapter of the American Cancer Society is bringing its Chili Cook-Off back to The Grounds in west Mobile this Saturday, marking the 27th year for one of the city’s most popular cold-weather fundraisers.
Dozens of teams compete for bragging rights over whose batch of chili reigns supreme, while proceeds from the event go toward the American Cancer Society’s programs on early detection and prevention, along with patient services such as transportation assistance, prosthetics and cancer research funding.
The cook-off kicks off at noon with all the chili attendees care to sample, plus live music and activities for children. Tickets are $10 in advance, available at Trax Tires, or $15 at the gate.
More on the local food and fundraising calendar
The chili cook-off is one of several charitable food and drink events on the calendar around the region this week. In Fairhope, Fairhope Brewing Co. is hosting its fourth annual BARC and Brews event at its taproom on Nichols Avenue. The gathering marks the release of the brewery’s spring seasonal, a red IPA called Rescue Dog Red, with proceeds benefiting the Baldwin County Humane Society. Fairhope Brewing plans to donate $2 from every pour of the beer sold during the event, then $1 per pour for as long as Rescue Dog Red stays on tap afterward. Adoptable dogs and cats from the Humane Society will be on site for a few hours so brewery customers can meet potential new pets, and Bean and Bistro will be on hand selling food alongside live music.
In Gulf Shores, the Coast Restaurant at the Beach Club is hosting a wine dinner built around lesser-known fish and game, organized through the NUISANCE Group, a nonprofit focused on educating the public about underused local seafood and game as sustainable culinary options. Chefs Brody Olive and Chris Sherrill of the Flora-Bama Yacht Club put together a menu built around wild boar, duck and bar jack, paired with wine, for $40 per person.
Down in Orange Beach, Fisher’s is hosting the third round of its Spring Coastal Chef Throwdown, a recurring series held during the area’s slower seasons to spark creativity and camaraderie among coastal chefs. Chris Sherrill of Flora-Bama Yacht Club, Bill Briand of Fisher’s and Jonathan Kastner of Anchor Bar and Grill will face off upstairs at Fisher’s, with no reservations required to attend.