Battle Judges – Florida Tacos, Wings & Desserts Battle

Meet the Judges of the 2nd Annual Florida
Tacos, Wings & Desserts Battle!

A distinguished panel of culinary experts, industry insiders, and seasoned tastemakers will take on the challenge of selecting this year’s champions. From respected chefs and food critics to media personalities and influential voices in the dining scene, our esteemed judges bring a wealth of experience and discerning palates to the table. They will determine the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place winners for both Best Grill Master and Best Sweets Master. Meanwhile, guests will play an essential role, casting their votes with wooden chips to crown the People’s Choice winners for Best Florida Tacos, Best Florida Wings, and Best Florida Desserts. With so much culinary talent in one place, competition will be fierce, and the flavors will be unforgettable! Grab GA Experience Pass or VIP Experience Pass Tickets

Hugh Sinclair – Chef Irie

We are proud to welcome back Hugh Sinclair, a.k.a. Chef Irie, as a judge! A long-time supporter and participant in our events since 2010, Chef Irie brings a wealth of culinary expertise and passion to the table.

Born in Jamaica and raised in New York, Hugh’s journey began in architecture, earning a B.S. from the University of Florida’s School of Architecture. However, his love for cooking led him to Johnson & Wales University, where he earned a degree in Culinary Arts and launched a dynamic career as a private chef, caterer, and TV personality.

As CEO and Executive Chef of Chef Irie Spice, Inc., he has catered to entertainers, athletes, and corporate elites across South Florida. He is also the president of Chef Irie’s Food On Fiyah Charities, dedicated to supporting local communities.

Chef Irie gained national recognition with his critically acclaimed PBS mini-series, Taste the Islands with Chef Irie, making history as the first Caribbean-born chef to headline a U.S. television cooking show. His Gourmand award-winning cookbook, Taste the Islands: Culinary Adventures in a Caribbean Kitchen, is available on Amazon.

A James Beard House alum, Chef Irie has showcased his culinary talents on the Food Network’s Cutthroat Kitchen, The Rickey Smiley Morning Show, and as a featured chef at premier events like SOBEWFF, Taste Jamaica, and Caribbean Chefs Take Over at the United Nations.

With a deep passion for Caribbean cuisine, he has been a guest chef at international festivals, including Bayfest (St. Lucia), St. Croix’s Food & Wine Festival, and Haiti’s Gout et Saveurs Lakay. He has also been specially invited as a guest chef on Holland America Cruise Lines.

Chef Irie continues to elevate the South Florida culinary scene, blending bold flavors with innovative techniques. Whether catering private events or representing Caribbean cuisine on a global stage, his influence is undeniable.

We’re thrilled to have Chef Irie back on the judging panel— get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Chef Irie Spice South Florida + International | 954.699.9050
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Dante Nardini - Common Man Eats

As a proud Florida native, I’m the founder of Common Man Eats — an authentic food blog with a fun, laid-back vibe. Having traveled nearly every inch of the state in search of great eats, my mission is to showcase and support local food establishments while sharing my culinary adventures in an approachable and entertaining way. From the freshest seafood and the smallest dive bars to splurge-worthy fine dining spots, my love for food knows no bounds.

Growing up, my dad cooked homemade meals every night. He also worked as a concierge at a high-end hotel, often receiving VIP invites to some of the city’s finest restaurants. His meals — inspired by his experience as a teenage line cook — and his access to luxury dining gave me a unique appreciation for both comforting home-cooked dishes and refined, chef-driven cuisine. This blend of influences helped develop my wide-ranging palate and deepened my passion for food.

With Common Man Eats, I highlight Florida’s vibrant food scene, from hidden gems to local legends and everything in between. As a judge, I bring a flavorful and unique perspective — shaped by years of culinary exploration, diverse food experiences, and meaningful connections with fellow food lovers and local restaurateurs.

I’m looking forward to meeting my fellow judges and seeing the crowd enjoy every flavorful bite at this epic community event in downtown Boca Raton – Sanborn Square Park!

Common Man Eats