Big Green Egg Cook-Off draws Atlanta's finest foodies

Donna H. Myers honored posthumously during event

Nicole Crews -- Casual Living, 3/8/2012 9:16:00 AM

ATLANTA — The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Expo (HPBExpo) Tailgate & Big Green Egg Celebrity Cook-Off fired up at 5 p.m. on Thursday, March 1 - day one of the event - with Executive Chef Todd Annis of Fifth Group Restaurants/Bold American Events, Chef Robert Bergomosco of Publik Draft House, Executive Chef Ron Eyester of Rosebud, Executive Chef Evan Johnson of Ruth's Chris Steak House and Executive Chef Scott Serpas of Serpas taking to the Egg to compete.

Atlanta's own Sweetwater Beer and jalapenos were offered up as the secret ingredient and barbecue guru Ted Reader served as emcee.
Judges Ray Lampe (Dr. BBQ), Derrick Riches (about.com) and Atlanta Braves emcee Mark Owen were judges for the tented event that took place in the Outdoor Exhibit Burn Area adjacent to the Georgia World Congress Center. Sponsored by Big Green Egg, the winner of the event was given an Egg grill and trophy. This year's winner was Scott Serpas of Serpas restaurant.
The inaugural Donna H. Myers Leadership Award - sponsored by HPBA and Casual Living - was awarded alongside the chef winner. This year's winner was awarded posthumously to Myers and honored her lifelong dedication to the barbecue and food industries. Accepting on her behalf was her sister Barbara Goodall.Luminaries from the barbecue world judged the cook-off.Chef Scott Serpas takes home the prizes, a Big Green Egg cooker and a trophy in its honor.More than 150 spectators attended the event.Barbara Goodall, sister of Donna H. Myers, accepts the Leadership Award on her behalf. Casual Living Publisher Norman Hamilton presented the inaugural trophy.