By: Ashmar Mandou

Gusting winds and low temperatures could not stop Melrose Park residents from enjoying an afternoon of delectable treats with three of Chicago’s top chefs during Meijer’s first ever Meijer Marketplace Culinary Challenge.

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Meijer called upon Chef Luis Perez, owner and executive chef of Dorado, Chef Antonio Rodriguez, who filled in for Chef Yanitzin Sanchez, of Sabor Saveur, and Chef Raul Arreola, head chef of Fat Rosie’s in St. Charles to challenge their abilities in three areas, mental toughness, kitchen skill, and culinary creativity. Each chef was tasked with making their ultimate taco recipe, which Meijer’s customers sampled.

After an hour of preparation and story-telling, the crowd anointed Chef Luis Perez the winner of the Meijer’s Marketplace Culinary Challenge for his Grilled Chipotle Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Chutney recipe. Chef Perez received $1,000 prize while runners-up Chef Rodriguez and Chef Arreola each received $500. The chefs donated their winnings to local charities. To view the winning recipe, visit www.lawndalenews.com or www.meijer.com.