One of Louisiana’s biggest culinary competitions is officially heading to Jefferson Parish for the very first time.

The 19th Annual Louisiana Seafood Cook-Off is set to take place Friday, June 26, 2026, at the Pontchartrain Convention & Civic Center, bringing together some of the state’s top chefs for an evening packed with live cooking, local seafood, and serious culinary talent.

Hosted by Visit Jefferson Parish in partnership with Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser, the Louisiana Seafood Promotion & Marketing Board, and the Louisiana Restaurant Association, the event has become one of the premier food competitions in the South since launching in 2008.

Known throughout the industry as a “culinary catapult,” the Louisiana Seafood Cook-Off has helped launch the careers of countless chefs across the state. Past winners have gone on to open restaurants, host television shows, earn national recognition, and represent Louisiana cuisine on some of the country’s biggest culinary stages.

The competition itself is a fast paced live cooking showdown where chefs from across Louisiana battle it out for the title of Louisiana Seafood King or Queen. The winning chef will go on to represent the state at future culinary events, including the nationally recognized Great American Seafood Cook-Off held in New Orleans later this summer.

But the event is much more than just a competition.

Guests attending the Louisiana Seafood Cook-Off will also get the opportunity to sip, sample, and savor dishes from restaurants across Jefferson Parish throughout the evening. Participating restaurants currently include favorites like Drago’s Metairie, Don’s Seafood, Acme Oyster House, Copeland’s of New Orleans, Bobby Hebert’s Cajun Cannon, Segnette Landing, Gattuso’s Neighborhood Restaurant, Messina’s Catering & Events, and many more.

Tickets are $65 and include:
• Entry to the Louisiana Seafood Cook-Off
• Tastings from participating restaurants
• Two drink tickets
• Access to a cash bar
• An evening celebrating Louisiana seafood and culinary culture

The event takes place from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., with chef awards being presented at 9:15 p.m. Guests must be 21 or older to attend.

For food lovers, seafood fans, and anyone looking for an unforgettable culinary experience, this event is shaping up to be one of the must attend food events of the summer.

The Louisiana Seafood Cook-Off will take place Friday, June 26, 2026, at the Pontchartrain Convention & Civic Center in Jefferson Parish.