In a delightful celebration of gastronomy, the San Diego County Fair recently unveiled its third annual Fair-Tastic Foods Competition. This event saw 26 judges partaking in an exhilarating challenge: to sample as many fair foods as possible within an hour. Among the culinary delights featured were innovative dishes such as the Tres Leches Cinnamon Roll, Cajun Honey Dog, and Cherry Blossom Dubai Chocolate Strawberries. After preliminary rounds narrowed down the entries to 18 finalists, these dishes were presented to the judges for final evaluation. The winners spanned various categories, including 'So San Diego', 'WOW', and 'Theme', each highlighting unique aspects of local culture and creativity.
A Feast Fit for Champions
On a radiant Friday morning at the San Diego County Fairgrounds, food enthusiasts gathered for the highly anticipated Fair-Tastic Foods Competition. Twenty-six discerning judges, including seasoned critics Jayne Yutig and Michael James Rocha, embarked on a gustatory journey through eighteen exceptional dishes. Key locations included Country Fair Cinnamon Rolls, where Willie Madaus's Tres Leches Cinnamon Roll stole the show, and West Coast Weenies, home to the fiery Cajun Honey Dog. Meanwhile, Ricky’s Sweet Paradise dazzled with their decadent Cherry Blossom Dubai Chocolate Strawberries, and Farmer in the Del offered a hearty serving of Super Volcano Fries. Each dish was meticulously crafted to reflect not only taste but also cultural influences and thematic relevance.
The competition unfolded under clear skies, allowing attendees to savor the vibrant atmosphere alongside their meals. Judges noted standout flavors like the perfect balance of sweetness and spice in the Tajin Me Up Dole or the rich, creamy texture of Biscoff Milk Tea. Other highlights included Loaded Plantains from Rafikiz Foodz, which brought East African flair to the table, and Pork Belly Bao Buns, praised for their tender pork belly encased in fluffy buns.
From these delectable offerings emerged category champions. In the 'So San Diego' section, SPAM Wonton Tacos by Boba King took top honors among savory entries, while the aforementioned Tres Leches Cinnamon Roll triumphed in the sweet division. Under the 'WOW' banner, Super Volcano Fries reigned supreme for savory creations, and Cherry Blossom Dubai Chocolate Strawberries earned accolades in the dessert realm. Lastly, the 'Theme' category saw Cajun Honey Dog crowned best savory treat, with Carnival Fish emerging victorious on the sweet side.
This year’s theme, "Summer Pet-tacular," inspired many entries, encouraging participants to incorporate animal-inspired elements into their designs. Attendees benefited from special discounts during designated hours, making it easier than ever to experience all that this extraordinary fair had to offer.
As dusk settled over the fairgrounds, visitors departed with full stomachs and hearts brimming with appreciation for the diverse talents showcased throughout the day.
Participating in events like the Fair-Tastic Foods Competition reminds us of the power of community and creativity when it comes to food. It encourages innovation, bringing together chefs and vendors who push boundaries to create memorable experiences. For those fortunate enough to attend, it offers far more than just sustenance—it provides joy, connection, and inspiration. Perhaps most importantly, it underscores the universal language of flavor, transcending barriers and uniting people through shared passions. As we look forward to next year's edition, one thing remains certain: there will always be something new—and delicious—to discover at the San Diego County Fair.