
Chowder Debate

THE CONCH HOUSE
GREAT Chowder Debate
What is the Great Chowder Debate?
Inaugurated in 1984, the Great Chowder Debate is one of the longest-running charity chowder championships in the country. Restaurants from the greater St. Augustine area come out every November to donate their chowders and their time in hope of winning first place. The Great Chowder Debate features over 5,000 patrons and over 2,000 gallons of chowder, served by some of the Florida’s best restaurants and chefs. This year we are partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters of St. Johns County. ALL of the proceeds made during this event will be going directly to BBBS of St. Johns County, supporting them in their mission to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships,
igniting the power and promise of youth.
Restaurants of all types are welcome to participate in the Chowder Debate.
You do no need to be a seafood restaurant or even have chowder on your menu to be included.
In the past we have had restaurants come out ranging from Italian to Irish, and even local Delis.
As long as you think you can cook up a tasty chowder or soup and want to support a great cause,
we will be more than happy to let you join. The more restaurants the better!
How to join us?
There is NO entree fee.
If you are interested in joining us this upcoming November 1st, 2026
please Email us directly at ConchMain@gmail.com for an application.
2019 Winners
Minorcan Conch Chowder
1st Place: The Conch House Marina Resort; 2nd Place: Harry’s Grille ; 3rd Place: Lulu’s Waterfront Grille
Minorcan Clam Chowder
1st Place: Fresh Market Island; 2nd Place: The Purple Olive; 3rd Place: Little Margie’s FA Cafe
New England Clam Chowder
1st Place: Tides Oyster Co.; 2nd Place: Little Margie’s FA Cafe ; 3rd Place: Lulu’s Waterfront Grille
Seafood Chowder
1st Place: Sunset Grille ; 2nd Place: Aunt Kate’s ; 3rd Place: Salt Life Food Shack
Non-Seafood Chowder
1st Place: Fried Chicken Kitchen; 2nd Place: The Purple Olive ; 3rd Place: Santiago’s Florida Kitchen and Craft Bar
People’s Choice Award (now the Cullipher cup)
Little Margie’s FA Cafe
2019 PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS
