On June 28th, gap intelligence competed in the 29th Annual Ocean Beach Fair and Chili Cook-Off.? We were a last minute fill-in for a team that canceled and we hurriedly put together a tent stand, tables, and cooked 10 gallons of Texas style chili – all before the 11AM deadline.


gap intelligence faced a host of “professional” chili companies and cooks from across the region in a heated competition that included about 2,000 “tasters”.? Our 10 gallon reserve of chili was devoured in less than two hours!!! ? After the dust had settled, we took 4th place (out of 25) in the Judge’s Contest – not bad for our first ever chili throw down!? Though we have no idea how we placed in the People’s Choice category, dozens of tasters told us that we had the best chili in town.? The only category that we truly lost was our sign that decorated our cook-off booth.? Either we have a very famous brand name in San Diego, or someone needed the frame.? Pictured is the last known photograph of our missing sign, decorated with sprayed chili from the contest. 

We have no secret chili recipe.? A year ago, I had the pleasure of meeting , who made the best bowl of chili I have ever had the pleasure of inhaling.? For the cook off, we contacted Cindy and she was gracious enough to allow gap intelligence to use her recipe and chili packets for the competition.? Cindy was also kind enough to send us an autographed 8.5×11!? Though we are happy that we came in fourth place, Cindy’ chili is a two time international champion – so we certainly did not do her justice.

 

A very big “Thank You” to Cindy and if you want to make the best chili you will ever eat – .