The Amarillo Chapter of the Texas Restaurant Association is set to host its 17th annual Restaurant Roundup on Thursday, offering attendees a chance to sample dishes from more than 50 local restaurants, wineries and food trucks.
The event will take place at the Rex Baxter Building at the Amarillo Tri-State Fairgrounds from 5 to 9 p.m., featuring a live culinary competition, a student culinary showcase and, for the second year, a dedicated food truck park.
Tickets are $40 and can be purchased through Panhandle Tickets, at select restaurant outlets, or at the door. Proceeds from the event will support the chapter’s scholarship fund, which benefits aspiring culinary students, as well as local organizations such as Meals on Wheels, Snack Pak 4 Kids and the High Plains Food Bank.
“This is a food and wine tasting event that not only highlights Amarillo’s vibrant restaurant scene but also helps fund important community programs,” said event coordinator Monika Barbee.
A highlight of the evening will be the live cooking competition, where three top chefs will compete in a “Kitchen Stadium”-style showdown. Defending champion Marcus Snead of The Barfield will face off against Olivia Lopez, executive chef for Amarillo National Bank, and Elijah Castillo of Savor. The chefs will work with a surprise ingredient and a stocked pantry to create dishes on the spot, with one crowned “Top Chef Amarillo.”
In addition to the professional competition, culinary students will participate in their own showcase, featuring a mocktail contest, cake decorating challenge and an amuse-bouche event, where they craft small, creative appetizers. An amuse-bouche, which translates from French as “mouth amuser,” is a small, complimentary appetizer served before the main meal. It is a way for chefs to offer a special treat, something unique and creative that reflects their culinary style and expertise. Unlike traditional appetizers, these are single, bite-sized hors d’oeuvres designed to give guests a preview of the chef’s style and flavors.
Attendees can also take advantage of the event’s wine tasting, with two wineries offering a selection of fine wines. Those who bring three canned food items to donate to Faith City Mission will receive a commemorative wine glass.
Each participating restaurant will serve a signature dish, with organizers encouraging attendees to explore new dining options in the city.
Jessica Higgins, owner of Girasol and chair of the Amarillo Chapter of the Texas Restaurant Association, shared her excitement for the event.
“I’m super excited to get ready for Thursday, and I can’t wait. It should be a blast,” Higgins said. She revealed that Girasol will feature a pastry with crème anglaise and raspberries at the event.
Barbee emphasized the importance of including food trucks, noting that many restaurants get their start in food trucks before expanding. “They are an essential part of the industry,” she said. “This event gives them a chance to introduce their food to a broader audience and connect with future customers.”
“People tell us all the time that they discover their new favorite restaurant at this event,” Barbee said.
Beyond offering culinary delights, the event provides a platform for up-and-coming chefs and students to connect with the community. Higgins emphasized the importance of showcasing young culinary talent and keeping them in the area. “For me, it’s a way to showcase the kids and the culinary talent here within the local area,” she said. “Our whole purpose is to support them, feature them, promote them, and hopefully get them scholarships to keep them in the field so they can grow — hopefully in the area.”
Higgins noted that this year’s student showcase will include cake decorating, a mocktail contest, and an amuse-bouche challenge featuring chicken thigh.
Barbee emphasized the importance of supporting local culinary students, noting that many talented individuals leave the area to pursue careers elsewhere. “We want to show these students that they have opportunities right here in Amarillo,” she said. “By investing in them through scholarships and programs, we hope to keep that talent in our community and help them thrive in the local food industry.”
Past attendees have used the event to find caterers for weddings and special events, showcasing the practical benefits of such a large-scale tasting experience.
Event organizers anticipate a crowd of 1,000 to 1,200 guests at this year’s event. Seating and tables will be available for those who wish to enjoy their food comfortably, and the venue layout will allow for easy access to vendors without long lines.
For tickets and more information, visit TexasTickets.com or purchase in-person at participating restaurants, including La Fiesta Grande, Joe Taco, Macaroni Joe’s, The Lost Cajun, Hoffbrau, Ye Olde Pancake Station, Mickey’s and Girasol.
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