Papa Grande’s chef celebrates wins at back-to-back contests

Emely Infante, executive chef of Papa Grande’s Fenwick, had a weekend to remember when she scored big wins in two competitive culinary events.

Defending her title at the Fire & Ice Festival Chili Cook-Off Feb. 1, Infante won first place for the second consecutive year. Her exceptional chili once again impressed judges and the local community.

Her winning streak continued Feb. 2 at the Best Wings on the Shore competition, where she pitted her recipe against some of the best chefs in the region. With hundreds of attendees voting, Infante’s Michelada Wing earned the title of best overall wing.

“Chef Emely just gets it,” said Doug Ruley, vice president of culinary operations for SoDel Concepts. “She is super talented; her staff respects her leadership, her passion and her work ethic; and I have no doubt that this is just the beginning for her. We’re going to continue to see great things from Chef Emely in the years to come.”