As Chowderfest is upon us, it’s hard to believe it’s in its 20TH YEAR. I’ve put on my own event (Flavorfeast) on for four years (going on five) years and that seems like it’s been a decade. Can’t imagine how Discover Saratoga feels!
But honestly, I can’t help but wonder what Chowderfest was like in the first five years. Perhaps more people back then attended for the chowder, and less for the drinking? Maybe (definitely) the lines were shorter? Maybe it was actually possible to try ALL of the chowders?
Either way, this event has grown into Saratoga’s most popular event, drawing in HUGE crowds of people young and old, from all over the place.
With that said, this will be my fifth year covering Chowderfest on Saratoga Food Fanatic. You might recall in the past my ambitious quest to try 20+ chowders (which I accomplished with flying colors), but this year I’m going for a healthy number of 10 chowders.
Why, might you ask? Well, because I’m 28 now, and I actually (really) have to watch what I eat. My days of trying 20 chowders without dying from too much milk and butter are gone, and moderation is the new word I’m living by these days.
Yeah yeah I know, I’m super lame. Just wait until I tell you about my Dry January (post coming on Thursday!)
Regardless – there’s always front runners for Chowderfest, and I’m going to name which restaurants I’ll aim to try on Saturday based on what they’re serving.
Here are my 2018 Top Chowderfest Picks!
- Boca Bistro: Bacon, Corn & Clam Chowder
- Comfort Kitchen: Brussels, Beer and Bacon Chowder
- Dunning Street Station: Shrimp & Scallop Chowder with Bourbon Pork Belly Confetti
- Forno Bistro: Spicy Crab and Corn Chowder with Arancini Crouton
- Hattie’s: Portuguese Stone Chowder with Clams, Andouille and Saffron
- Morrissey’s Lounge at The Adelphi Hotel: Chicken Pot Pie Chowder
- Savory Pantry/Moby Rick’s Seafood: Crabby Lobster Chowder
- Sinclair Saratoga/Buddah Noodle: Clam Chowder Ramen
- The Wishing Well: Southwest Shrimp and Bacon Corn Chowder
- *Honorable Mention to Druthers who always make a mean chowder, but never reveal what they’re serving until the day of.
For the full list of participating restaurants, click here.
Are you planning on attending Chowderfest this year? If so, what’s your plan of attack for the day?
If you’re not planning on going but still want to watch me stuff my face with dairy, make sure to follow me on Instagram & Snapchat @ashleydingeman or LIKE my Facebook Page (Saratoga Food Fanatic) or click here.
Until Saturday, my friends!
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