Top Bun: A Smokin’ Barkai Summer Event

What could be hotter than watching dozens of competing chefs grilling, cooking and baking in the summer sun? Maybe being the person who has to judge their creations. In any case, August 11th promises to be an exciting night: Barkai Yeshiva’s Top Bun competition!

Top Bun, the annual fundraiser for Barkai Yeshivah, is a very unique event which is unparalleled in our community, where dozens of teams compete for titles of best food dishes. The event will take place at the home of Ricky and Jamie Cohen. Last year’s event was attended by over 1,000 community members who all had a great time while showing their support for Barkai Yeshivah.

Kathy Shabot, a former Top Bun competitor (who along with her friend, Esther Safdieh won last year’s competition for best maza-lahamagine cigars), will be chair-person for this event. “Hearing how successful the last event was, and all the positive feedback, is just so rewarding,” Kathy said. “I get excited when Barkai does well, and I only hope to have a small piece of self-fulfillment knowing that I helped our special and unique school.” 

In the past, competitors wowed guests and judges with Syrian food from four categories: Maza, “Goes with Rice,” Main Dish, and Dessert.  Each item is judged by taste, originality, authenticity and presentation. This summer’s Top Bun will feature three simultaneous competitions: Syrian Food, Grilling and Dessert.  All guests are invited to sample the foods from all competitors, mingle and enjoy! Three judges from each category will strictly rate the dishes, while participants await the crowning of this summer’s best community chef.  

Top Bun will also feature a gala Chinese Auction, various vendors offering their food and a wine tasting, where guests mayl sample wines from various regions and purchase their favorites. The evening is entertaining, aesthetically pleasing, and very exciting. Only one question remains: Do you have what it takes to be Top Bun? To compete in Top Bun, please call Kathy Shabot at (646) 299-7722.
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Nazira Chabbot enjoys creative writing and has written articles for IMAGE Magazine in the past. She has a preschooler attending Barkai Yeshivah.