Taste of the Town 2025 winners announced

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Taste of the Town culinary showcase on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center. Thousands of attendees sampled the best bites from nearly 40 area food and beverage vendors.

Taste of the Town Judges voted on three different categories including: Best Appetizer, Best Entrée and Best Dessert. In addition, attendees were able to choose their favorite vendor through the People’s Choice Award.

Best of Taste Winners:
• Best Appetizer: Del Frisco’s Grille
• Best Entrée: Black Walnut Café
• Best Dessert (tie): Dessert Gallery and Bruster’s Ice Cream
• People’s Choice Award: Rise Soufflé

This year’s culinary judges were:

Logan Baker, Team Chef, Houston Astros. Baker is a skilled culinary professional with over 15 years of experience working in high-level kitchens across various industries. Logan has been the team chef for the Houston Astros since 2018.

Mark Waits, Restaurant Reviewer/Chef. Waits is a restaurant reviewer known for “REAL reviews, NO vibe dining.” Mark has 10+ years of experience as a chef with a review style that is extremely informative and nuanced while still being down-to-earth and direct.

Marcus Bridgewater, Author and Creator. Bridgewater is an internationally published author, creator and the social media personality known as Garden Marcus with over a million followers on social media. Marcus also serves on the Chamber’s Board of Directors.

Ann Wolford, President, the Wolford Group. Wolford is the Founder of the Wolford Group a consulting firm devoted to helping nonprofits maximize their fundraising potential by providing services that range from strategic planning and board retreats to campaigns and event management. Ann also serves as the Chair of the Chamber’s Board of Directors.

Ashley Havard, Texas Commercial Sales Manager, Consolidated Communications. Havard leads a team of sales professionals, driving business growth across the state.

For three decades, Taste of the Town has been a beloved culinary tradition showcasing area cuisine. Guests sample appetizers, entrees, desserts and drinks from more than 40 of the area's finest restaurants, caterers, bakeries and beverage companies.

The Chamber extends its thanks to first time Taste of the Town Presenting Sponsor Consolidated Communications for making this event possible.