The East Coast She Crab Soup Classic is an open competition among restaurants.  This event focuses on seafood, which is the most identifiable cuisine in Virginia Beach and a staple of area menus for decades. 

Based on tastings, there are two categories for best recipe winners, with three places in each.  One category is decided by a panel of Hampton Roads food critics and the other – “The Peoples’ Choice” – by the general public.  The event is open to 25 competitors.  The public is charged a nominal fee to enter the event.  Each paying guest receives a sheet that is stamped at each restaurant’s station, allowing everyone to sample each offering.  Judges evaluate all soups and select First, Second, and Third Place winners.  Their collective decision is final and based solely on specific criteria.  Winners are announced at the end of the event.  Plaques for all winners are awarded to be displayed in restaurants, where chefs enjoy “bragging rights” for a full year.

HERE ARE THE RESULTS OF THE VOTING AT THE 2009 EAST COST SHE CRAB SOUP CLASSIC:

Critics' Choice Award:

1st Place - Freemason Abbey

2nd Place - Tradewinds

3rd Place - Tautogs

Peoples' Choice Award:

1st Place - Freemason Abbey

2nd Place - Mahi Mah's Seafood

3rd Place - GF Keagan's