Alaska Seafood Cook-off

Last night I was invited to the 2012 Alaska Seafood Cook-off.

Prior to the invitation, I had never heard about this event, but I was excited to find out what it was all about!

After work, Craig and I arrived at the train depot in downtown Anchorage to take a little train ride before the cook-off event.

We felt very important to be invited to such an event attended by the mayor, lieutenant governor, a former governor, other politicians, and several other prestigious people.

I was excited for this event too.

Complimentary drinks were provided on the train. Craig had to showcase the Alaska Railroad symbol since a good friend of ours used to work for them.

The train took us through Anchorage. . . . .

past Potter’s Marsh. . . .

and down Turnagain Arm.

I was not the only person taking endless pictures throughout the evening, so I didn’t feel quite so nerdy.

It was a nearly-clear day with lots of sun.

After our 90-minute train ride, we arrived at the airport where our event would be held.

Inside the chefs were getting ready for the cook-off.

Six chefs competed in a cook-off where they had to use their skills to showcase Alaskan seafood at its finest. A panel of judges then voted for their favorite and the respective chef would move on to the national event.

We ate while the chefs prepared their entrees.

I was starving by the time we got off the train, so I was more than ready to dig into the appetizers that awaited us.

The appetizers were heavy on the meats—only one platter of vegetables—so my healthy eating took a back burner for the evening.

Everything was very delicious though.

Each chef had one hour to complete their meal. Here are some of their creations.

It was so much fun to attend this event and be able to partake in something so unique to Alaska.