It’s back, baby!
Cape May County’s favorite culinary showdown returns for 2026, and the heat in the kitchen is turned all the way up.
For the past several years, the Kara Restaurant Group has hosted our Cook-Off: a multi-course dining experience that truly packs a punch. This year, the action takes place at CAVU BYOB, located inside the Pan American Hotel in Wildwood Crest, NJ.
The main event features a fierce, high-stakes competition between two teams of our top chefs: Peter & Nikos vs. Yianni & George. Each team will bring their best creations to the table, but only one team can take home ultimate bragging rights.
High Stakes & Messy Consequences
Winning is sweet, but losing? That comes with a cost! The culinary team that falls short doesn’t just lose bragging rights, they have to face the consequences in front of the crowd.
Over the years, punishments for the losing chefs have varied, keeping everyone on their toes. From getting doused in ice water to taking a pie directly to the face, our losing team always takes their defeat like champions (and provides plenty of laughs for the room). You won’t want to miss seeing who gets hit with this year’s consequences!
Live Entertainment & Unforgettable Evenings
Beyond the incredible multi-course dinner, the Kara Restaurant Group Cook-Off is known for delivering a full night of premier entertainment. Past events have brought unique live acts to the dining room—from high-energy dueling pianos to world-class violinists.
Local Partnerships & Exciting Extras
Part of what makes the Kara Restaurant Group Cook-Off such an incredible night out is our deep roots in the Cape May County community. We love partnering with fellow local businesses and producers to bring exciting extras and special tastings straight to your table!
Last year, local founder Frank Conrad brought his hit brand “Let’s Be Frank” to the party, giving guests an exclusive tasting of their premium canned espresso martinis. We’re always teaming up with area favorites to make sure your evening is packed with surprises from start to finish.
How to Get Your Ticket to the Cook-Off
A seat at the 2026 Cook-Off is offered as a FREE gift with the purchase of our BUY ONE GET ONE FREE Kara Gold Card sale. It’s the ultimate win-win for local foodies looking to enjoy the best dining in Cape May County all year long while scoring an unbeatable night out.
Seats for this exclusive dining event are extremely limited, click here to submit for your chance at a spot.
We can’t wait to welcome you to CAVU BYOB at the Pan American Hotel and show you what surprises we have in store for this year’s event!
