Seasoned pork, sliced ham and tart pickles surrounded by Cuban bread and pressed to a perfect crisp produces a Key West classic — the Cuban mix.
Now add a few secret ingredients, some unexpected flavors and an unprecedented crisping technique and you’ve got yourself a contest.
More specifically, you have the fifth annual Cuban Sandwich Throwdown, set for noon on Saturday, April 25 at the Green Parrot Bar.
It’s a pretty perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon. I speak from experience, having had the honor of sitting at the judges’ table for each of the past four events.
Now in its fifth year, this brainchild of Marcia Weaver, owner of Frita’s Cuban Burger Cafe, 425 Southard St., has reached the status of beloved local event — and fierce competition for island bragging rights.
This year’s throwdown on April 25 will feature entries from local restaurants, food trucks and independent chefs — but no one will know until the end who made what, as all entries are identified only by a number or letter until the judges’ and the public’s votes are tallied.
The mission, as always, remains the same: Impress the judges and the public by serving the tastiest Cuban mix sandwich in one of two categories: traditional and non-traditional.
A $20 donation entitles each participant to a literal pile of sandwiches to sample — and a vote to help determine the people’s choice winner in each of the two categories.
This year, all proceeds benefit Sigsbee Charter School. QMitch once again will emcee the event, which will also feature live music. Key West artist Sean Dwyer will be live-painting the event, and Carolyn Guarini will introduce her Human Slot Machine game. (You have to see it to believe it.)
So save the date — and wear some stretchy pants — for the fifth annual Cuban Sandwich Throwdown.
For more information, or to enter, stop by Frita’s Cuban Burger Cafe or contact Weaver at 305-509-7075, fritascubanburgers@gmail.com or send a Facebook message through Frita’s Cuban Burger Cafe Facebook page.
