Chili Cook-off packed ’em in, filled ’em up

The ‘Best in Show’ winners from DotOUT with the judges, former Sen. Linda Forry and Eleanor Arpino. Dan Sheehan photo

The 12th annual Dorchester Chili Cook-off saw DotOut claim the prize for Best In Show on Sunday afternoon at the IBEW Local 103 Hall. This year’s competition had more than 20 local civic groups, associations, and businesses submit their own chilis in pursuit of the official title of Best Chili in Dorchester.

As usual, all proceeds from the event went towards funding the Dorchester Day Parade, which will take place this year on Sunday, June 3.

This year’s hosts and head judges were former State Senator Linda Dorcena Forry and former owner of local restaurant ester, Eleanor Arpino. Forry, who recently stepped down from her State House position, brought her trademark energy to the event.

“Since she’s no longer doing the breakfast, she insisted on doing this!” joked Arpino.

The City of Boston Credit Union took home the prize for best non-beef chili, while Haley House won Most Creative with their chili brownie recipe and the city’s BPDA won Best Team Spirit for their costumes and decorations. The Martin Richard Foundation won the People’s Choice prize.

The event also featured a performance from New Orleans-style second line brass band the Hot Tamales, as well as a variety of kids games and activities.


Subscribe to the Dorchester Reporter