Chef teams sought for Love Our Community's 'Men Who Cook' event

Chef teams may compete in one of four categories: appetizer, side dish, main dish or dessert. Organizers hope to select about five chef teams per category, with slots filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Teams may sign up using a printed chef packet or digitally here.

Completed packets and recipe selections must be received no later than Jan. 15, 2026. Packets may be mailed to Love Our Community, 532 W. Maple St., Hartville, OH 44632, or emailed to events@loveourcommunity.net. Questions should also be directed to that email address.

The event will take place at the MarketPlace and Flea Market Event Center from 5:30–8:30 p.m., with chef setup scheduled from 3–5:30 p.m.

Chef teams must select a sous chef and choose a competition category. Each team will prepare and serve at least 250 sample-sized portions ranging from 2 to 4 ounces. All food must be cooked before arrival. Chefs are encouraged to decorate their serving area, which includes one 8-foot table, and wear fun attire to attract guests and votes. Each chef team will also be asked to sell at least five event tickets.

Guests will vote on awards including Best Table Presentation and Top Earner. Each team will have a tip jar, with all proceeds donated to Love Our Community. The team receiving the most tips for presentation will receive the Best Table trophy, while the individual chef with the highest total tips will earn the Top Earner trophy.

Chefs are responsible for the cost of their ingredients and may request a gift-in-kind receipt for tax purposes. Food boats and utensils will be provided. Chefs should bring any additional serving items they may need.

Each team will be provided one 8-foot table with linen and three chafing dishes with sterno. Additional chafing dishes may be brought if needed. Refrigeration and freezer space will not be available onsite. Trash receptacles will be provided in the event area, while food scraps must be disposed of in a designated kitchen area.

On the day of the event, aprons will be provided for chefs and sous chefs. Teams must be set and ready to serve by 5:30 p.m., when team photos will be taken. Chef teams are required to serve their own food, and both the chef and sous chef will receive free admission to the event.