By Stacey Tinsley, Bossier Press-Tribune
The crowd at Bossier Parish Community College erupted in applause Tuesday evening as Dylan Teekell, chef at Library on Fern, was crowned the winner of the Battle for the Golden Fork, securing both bragging rights and the coveted $5,000 grand prize.
Teekell triumphed over fellow finalists Jasmine Cherry of The Noble Savage and Chelsea Girard of Heron / Mae & Company in a fast-paced, Chopped-style mystery basket cookoff. The three chefs earned their spots after impressing festival-goers during Prize Fest’s popular Come & Get It event.
Tuesday’s finale brought excitement, creativity, and culinary showmanship to BPCC’s main quad, where spectators gathered to watch the chefs transform surprise ingredients into standout dishes under pressure. The atmosphere was electric as the competitors whisked, sautéed, and plated their way through the challenge.
A panel of celebrity judges evaluated the dishes on technique, presentation, and flavor before ultimately awarding Teekell the Golden Fork title.
“We were so proud of these incredible chefs and thrilled to see them face off in the ultimate culinary showdown,” said Gregory Kallenberg, Executive Director of the Prize Foundation. “The energy, creativity, and passion they brought to the table is exactly what makes Food Prize so special.”
Families, students, and food enthusiasts cheered throughout the evening, celebrating not just the competition, but the growing culinary talent that continues to shape the Shreveport-Bossier food scene.
The Battle for the Golden Fork remains one of Prize Fest’s most anticipated events, shining a spotlight on the region’s rising chefs—and this year, it was Dylan Teekell who rose to the top.