On February 5, Atlantic City’s Island Waterpark at the Showboat became the epicenter of culinary talent, philanthropy, and celebration as Let’s Get Cookin’ 2025 raised over $100,000 in support of the Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City.
With more than 500 guests in attendance and 50 chefs presenting their best dishes, the annual event was more than a competition—it was a meaningful showcase of how food can bring people together for a cause.
Gourmet Giving: Food with Purpose
Guests sampled heirloom recipes and innovative creations from both amateur and professional chefs across the South Jersey region. From timeless carrot cake to elevated tuna crackers, every plate served helped fund life-changing youth programs that benefit the local community.
“Every dish, every bite, every ticket purchased helps us create opportunity,” said Tracey Triniwell, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City. “This is the power of community.”
A distinguished panel of judges, led by Chef Pam Green, selected the winners across multiple categories. Judging highlights included:
Appetizer, Soup, Salad
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Amateur: Tuscan Tomato & Bread Soup – Chefs Luis, Robert, Ozzy, GGTI
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Professional: Mad Mutz Jenga – Chef Michael Hauke
Entrée
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Amateur: Jumpin’ Jambalaya – Ken Calemmo (Returning 2008 winner)
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Professional: Maple Bulgogi Brisket Taco – Chef Scott Bencze
Dessert
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Amateur: Gram’s Carrot Cake – Chefs Donna and Jim Ziereis
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Professional: Sticky Toffee Pudding – Chefs George Goldhoff and Thaddeus DuBois
Guest Choice Winners
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Amateur: Stuffed Grape Leaves – Chef Faten Dib
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Professional: Crispy Rice Tuna Cracker – Chef Robert Levenson, Resorts
Best Decorated Table
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Amateur: Chef Christopher Smith
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Professional: Chefs Linda Wahlman and Joseph Sheridan
Fire vs. Police Throwdown
In a fun twist, the Atlantic City Police and Fire Departments joined in a friendly culinary duel. The ACPD won with their Stuffed Grape Leaves with Lamb & Rice, narrowly edging out the ACFD’s Shrimp & Crab Cakes.
A Recipe for Community Success
The event was co-chaired by Larry Sieg (former CEO of Visit Atlantic City) and Lori Herndon (former CEO of AtlantiCare), with a dedicated team of volunteers and staff working behind the scenes. Proceeds from the evening will support ongoing youth development programs at the Boys & Girls Club, ensuring more young people have access to resources, mentorship, and opportunities to thrive.
