The Taste of Hope event recently showcased local culinary talent while raising funds for a meaningful cause. Held on September 14, the second annual competition brought together some of the best chefs in the area for a friendly culinary showdown at Everett’s at Mat-Su Resort. The event successfully raised $27,000 for the American Cancer Society, primarily through ticket sales and a silent auction.
A Bigger and Better Event
Amber Glasser, the general manager of Everett’s and event co-chair, expressed her excitement about the growth of the event. “It’s all about bringing the community together,” she said. “We’re just trying to have fun and create something that is Valley-centric.” The atmosphere was filled with camaraderie and positive energy as local businesses and community members came together for a night of culinary celebration.
Winner of Best in Show
The highlight of the competition was the Birdhouse Sandwich Co., a popular food truck from Palmer, which took home the Best in Show award for its kogi pork belly street taco. Owner Matt Shaughnessy was pleasantly surprised by the victory, especially given the competition from well-regarded establishments like The Grape Tap and Susitna Brewing Co. “They carry a lot of weight and get good reviews,” he admitted, reflecting on his initial nerves before the competition.
Once the cooking began, Shaughnessy focused on serving his food and engaging with a crowd that might not typically visit food trucks. “I was head down making tacos the whole time. It went by very fast,” he said. The positive vibes and good intentions from fellow competitors made the experience enjoyable. “I’ll definitely be doing it again next year.”
The Kogi Taco
Shaughnessy chose the kogi pork belly taco for the event, a dish he has perfected over nine months. Wrapped in a soft flour tortilla, the taco features tender pork belly, sesame cilantro slaw, and spicy mayo—a fusion of Korean barbecue and Hispanic street food. The inspiration for this dish stems from Shaughnessy’s culinary journey, including time spent with a Korean chef who introduced him to the idea of merging Mexican and Korean flavors.
“I just started messing around with that,” he explained. “I’ve been doing a lot of pork belly, so I said ‘let’s try this as a taco.’ It always sells out.”
Food lovers can find the Birdhouse Sandwich Co. at 127 S. Alaska St. in Palmer, serving tacos during Taco Tuesday a couple of times a month. Shaughnessy encourages patrons to follow Birdhouse on Facebook for updates on the menu.
Community Support and Engagement
Amber Glasser, who also tasted the kogi taco, expressed her admiration for the dish. “I tried everything,” she said, adding that the taco was particularly popular among attendees. Other notable competitors included The Grape Tap, which served a delicious chorizo queso paired with wine, and Susitna Brewing Company, known for its award-winning cocktails and barbecued brisket, described by Glasser as “melt-in-your-mouth tender.”
Additional participants in the event included Meta and Rose, Bleeding Heart Brewery, Crumby Bakery, Cold Snap Coffee, Snow Thistle Treats and Treasures, Wunderbar, and Anchorage Distillery.
Looking Ahead
With a successful turnout and a strong sense of community, Glasser is optimistic about next year’s Taste of Hope. “We had so many amazing Valley businesses come together to donate, volunteer, or both. And the community really showed up for us,” she reflected. “I feel blessed and honored to have this opportunity. It’s going to get bigger every year.” The date for next year’s event has already been secured, promising another celebration of local cuisine and community spirit.
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