Costa Mesa has its very own version of the well-known Food Network series “Chopped” – with a twist.  This Saturday, June 9, the event at SoCo Farmers’ Market (next to the OC Mart Mix) is a cooking competition inspired by products coming directly from Costa Mesa’s own certified farmers’ market.

The “Chopped”-style competition requires food truck chefs to shop the farmers’ market for pre-determined seasonal ingredients and whip up a culinary masterpiece in just 60 minutes. A community panel will judge the dishes on creativity, taste and presentation and decide who will be crowned the ‘Top Chop’ Truck! The Challenge kicks off at 12 pm, judging begins at 1pm and the winner will be announced at 1:30 pm.  A representative from Travel Costa Mesa is going to be one of the judges, so come by and say hello!

The festivities will also feature live music, kid-friendly activities and free parking. Admission is also free. A food drive benefiting Costa Mesa locals will also take place and attendees are encouraged to bring canned goods or make a small donation – donations will be used to purchase food directly from the farmers. The event will be held in conjunction with the SoCo Certified Farmers’ Market, which takes place every Saturday at South Coast Collection at the 3315 Hyland Ave in Costa Mesa from 9 am to 2pm.