Chefs Compete to Raise Funds for the Arc of Anchorage
A unique Alaska dessert competition, Sweet Rivalry, recently helped raise funds for The Arc of Anchorage, an organization benefiting those in our community who struggle with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The sold-out event, which took place on October 11, was the first of its kind for the Arc of Anchorage.
The evening began with a VIP event that featured the Top Tier Plated Dessert competition. Muse, Marx Brothers Café, and Bridge Seafood Restaurant presented their unique dessert creations to a panel of judges. The competition was mostly sweet but also surprisingly savory.
Muse came to impress with their red velvet funnel cake, dyed red with beets. Their ingenuity and creativity with the funnel cake was very unique.
Chef John D’elia of Marx Brothers Café impressed the panel and audience with his out-of-the-box choice of ingredients. The dessert sandwiched basil-infused buttercream between delicate French pastry, a cashew brittle drizzled in a curried caramel fish sauce. and huckleberry and coconut sorbet garnished with red pepper strings
When asked about the inspiration for his dessert D'elia told us, “I came from the savory side of things. I spent most of my career doing that, so coming back from that into the dessert world I’m using some ingredients that are forbidden."
Bridge Seafood Restaurant captured the judge’s sweet tooth and won the competition with their dark chocolate espresso cake with vanilla crème anglaise, Bailey’s ganache, caramelized bananas, and fresh honey marshmallow whip to top it off.
After the VIP event wrapped up, we moved on to the main event, which was in full swing in the Hilton ballroom. Hungry diners circumnavigated the balancing plates of decadent samples. From homemade cannolis to goat cheese cheesecake, guests may have found themselves ending the evening with worthwhile stomachaches.
Popcorn and macarons were enjoyed while the silent auction took place and the phone lines opened for donations. Sticky fingers did not defer guests from opening their pocketbooks to support the Arc’s work.
This delicious event helped The Arc of Anchorage raise thousands of dollars to put towards their goal of helping Alaska's disabled community. Thanks to all who participated.
