What began in 2016 as a one-night competition, with 12 chefs and four pastry chefs, has grown into North Carolina’s premier culinary and mixology competition.The North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association (NCRLA) celebrated the 10th anniversary of its Chef Showdown on Wednesday, Sept. 2, at Bay 7 in Durham, bringing together the state’s top culinary and beverage talent for a monumental celebration.
“The talent represented at this year’s Chef Showdown reflects the incredible depth and creativity of North Carolina’s hospitality industry,” said Allen Thomas, president and CEO of NCRLA. “We were excited to celebrate the accomplishments of all our 2026 finalists in Durham and to recognize the 2026 Chef Showdown champions, while giving friends, family and hospitality fans from across the state an opportunity to cheer them on.”
Ashley Sarkis of Yunta Nikkei in Charlotte took top honors as NCRLA Mixologist of the Year, partnering with Muddy River Distillery in Mount Holly, which was named NCRLA Distillery of the Year. This is the second Distiller of the Year award for Muddy River Distillery. They have the unique distinction of also being the very first NCRLA Distillery of the Year, a title they first captured in 2017.
Zach Benson of Supperland won People’s Choice Best Cocktail and Best Use of Dairy Products in a Cocktail
The NCRLA First Runner-Up Chef of the Year was Bobby McFarland of Wye Hill in Raleigh, while Josh Dobson of Deepwell in Mooresville was named NCRLA First Runner-Up Pastry Chef of the Year. This is Dobson’s second First Runner-Up title. He was also named NCRLA First Runner-Up Pastry Chef of the Year in 2025.
The NCRLA Chef Showdown is a signature NCRLA event celebrating North Carolina’s hospitality professionals and the farmers, producers and products that make the state’s food and beverage industry unique. Learn more at www.ncchefshowdown.com.
