As Texas ex-pats, there is one particular event in NYC that unites us each May: the annual Lone Star Chili Cook-Off, set amidst 230 Fifth Avenue's lush and beautiful rooftop terrace.  Presented by the New York Texas Exes and the New York A&M Club, the proceeds from this sold-out fiesta benefit each organization's respective scholarship fund.

For the past three years, I've had the honor and privilege of being selected to judge this delicious affair.  Here's a list of who else accompanied me at this year's "chili-tasting" table:  

• Joaquin Baca

• Lori Bolding Associate Director of Development, UT Austin

• Moira Campbell

• Matt Dunning journalist

• Jeff Holmes

• Bruce Sterman owner/founder of Manhattan Chili Co.

• Anne Thornton

• Meena Thronkompola sous chef, Nobu 57

Please enjoy some of my favorite snapshots from the judge's table at the 18th annual Lone Star Chili Cook-Off.  Until next year, y'all!

A chili collage

…

Until we eat again,

Lindsay, The Lunch Belle