Bristol Chef to Represent State in National Cookoff

Gov. Lincoln Chafee nominated Chef Rizwan Ahmed of Bristol’s Hourglass to represent Rhode Island in the “Great American Seafood Cook Off” in New Orleans, Louisiana, reports Eastbayri.com.

Ahmed was chosen from more than 250 chefs from across the nation to compete in the cook off's final event on Aug. 3 - an honor bestowed to only 14 of the competing chefs.

The event will broadcast on PBS and the Food Network. Ahmed is the first Rhode Island chef to earn this distinction in the event's history.

The Pakistani-born chef opened his Bristol restaurant, The Hourglass Brasserie, in 2010. Ahmed serves contemporary European style cuisine at this 42-seat restaurant and his menu is notable for its innovation and unique flavors. The restaurant prides itself on the fact that the cooks all work in a collaborative fashion, continually experimenting and sharing ideas. 

Ahmed, who prides himself on cooking not only delicious but also sustainable food, will be presenting “Pavé Of Parmesan & Curry Crusted Pollack” with pickled cauliflower, smoked artichokes, confit of fingerling potatoes, edamame, caramelized Point Judith squid, and bone marrow bordelaise, according to Eastbayri.com. 

During the event, The Hourglass Brasserie will be closed the Aug. 2 - 4.