Belleville Chili Cook-Off Achieves Success with Five-Time Winner Stealing the Spotlight

Basio badr

ago 3 hours

A group of volunteers in the metro-east region, Truman’s 309, claimed victory in the non-restaurant/caterer division at Belleville’s Annual Chili Cook-Off. This marks their fifth consecutive win at the event, held over two days, attracting tens of thousands to downtown Belleville for food, drinks, and festivities.

Belleville Chili Cook-Off Achieves Success

Truman’s 309 emerged as a standout winner once again. Led by Anne Markezich, the team prepared an impressive 300 gallons of traditional hamburger chili. “Our secret is our team,” Markezich shared. Their efforts also earned them the People’s Choice Award, with proceeds benefiting the Community Interfaith Food Pantry in Belleville.

Five-Time Winner Steals the Spotlight

Michael Crockett, a team member, noted significant demand after their victory was announced. “They swarmed us,” he said, highlighting the crowd’s enthusiasm for their chili. This year, 16 vendors competed in the non-restaurant/caterer division, with second place going to Gaslight Vinyl in Belleville and third to JS & Sons Construction in Sparta.

Success for Tivanov Catering Co.

Winner of the restaurant/caterer division: Tivanov Catering Co., St. Louis
Unique offering: Texas-brisket chili with dried-pepper base
Additional delights: Quesadillas, gyros, and more

Teddy Tivanov, the owner, praised the distinct flavor of their chili, noting, “Texas chili is dried-pepper-based.” Tivanov’s team has competed infrequently, but they secured second place about a decade ago, demonstrating consistent quality in their culinary offerings.

Festival Highlights and Changes

The cook-off served as a major fundraiser, with over half of the 47 vendors supporting nonprofit organizations. In the restaurant/caterer division, Dixon’s Famous Chili from Independence, Missouri, and Casa Maria Mexican Grill from Belleville earned second and third places, respectively.

Safety Controls and Downtown Impact

This year’s festival ended earlier at 8 p.m., due to tighter safety measures following past disturbances. An ordinance also restricted large bags, further enhancing security. Despite hopes for increased business, local establishments saw limited effects from the earlier closing.

Residents like Bennie Parr, owner of Bennie’s Pizza Pub, recognized the festival’s primary goal of supporting charitable causes rather than boosting business. Importance was placed on adjusting to new norms for community events while ensuring public safety.