Chowder Fest a rockin' good time

Story & Photos by William M. Dowd

I just got back from judging the first-ever Chowder Fest in Troy. I'm stuffed, happy and ready for a nap. Thus, no time to write a thousand words or so about the event dreamed up by chef Larry Schepici (owner of Tosca and the Illium Cafe) that drew dozens of competitors and thousands of visitors to a blocked-off chunk of River Street just north of the Green Island Bridge today.

Suffice it to say there were some imaginative chowders (Arnet's Diner won the award for best overall, the Troy Community Food Co-op best vegetarian chowder award), lots of pleased patrons of all ages, and immediate plans to expand the venue next summer.

In place of a thousand words, here are a dozen or so photos that should provide an idea of what the event -- which Capital Region Living magazine helped sponsor -- looked like, beginning with Chef Larry putting the finishing touches on his serving station. And, don't be surprised if you spot a mermaid somewhere along the way as well as the rockin' Phoebe Henry trio.

And, if you'd like to get a feel for the crowd at the inaugural event, just click here .