On Saturday, February 22, 2025, the MLK, Jr. Community Center hosted the 3rd annual “Taste of Soul” Soul Food Cook-Off, highlighting the diversity of soul food cuisine in celebration of Black History Month.
Registered participants entered their best soul food dish for a chance to win first place in 4 categories, including meat, sides/appetizers, desserts, and vegan/vegetarian. Each dish was judged based on taste, appearance, and creativity. The “People’s Choice” award was given to the contestant with the best overall dish, determined by a collective vote from the community.
Attendees enjoyed samples from each contestant along with raffles and prizes, free food and drinks, and live performances from R&B singer Reuben Lael. Jamie “Jazze” Maxie, On Air Personality and Community Affairs Director for Radio One, served as Mistress of Ceremony.
Featured contestants included Juicy’s Soul Food & More!, 1Hand^, Belizean Jewels Island Flavors, Qu-Dee, Charmed By Missa, Charisweet, Fe’s Cake Shoppe, Nana Dot’s Southern Sweets, Soul of the Souf, BB’s Special, The Bayou Catering Co., Curated Cravings, Salads Mediterranean Style, Cooking With Friends, Gregory Green, Aaron Bacon III, Crystal Tyler, and Sammie Anderson.
Winners included Belizean Jewels Island Flavors (Meat); The Bayou Catering Co. (Sides/Appetizers); Charmed By Missa Vegan Cuisine (Vegan/Vegetarian); and Fe’s Cake Shoppe (Dessert). The People’s Choice winner was Juicy’s Soul Food & More!
Community Partners included the City of Dallas Office of Community Care, Dallas Park & Recreation, Accident & Injury Chiropractic, Kroger, GEMS Camp, Empowering the Masses, World Vision, In the City For Good, Kroger, HELP, LIRA Group, DFW Voices for Education and Youth, Louisiana Hot Sauce, 97.9 the Beat, and Magic 94.5.
Special thanks to the MLK, Jr. Community Center Advisory Board, the judges, and our dedicated volunteers for their gracious support and commitment to the center.
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