August 4, 2025

Cleveland Chef Wesley True Crowned King of American Seafood

News Summary

Chef Wesley True from Cleveland, Tennessee, won the title of 2025 King of American Seafood at the Great American Seafood Cook-Off in New Orleans. His award-winning dish featured fried catfish with herb aioli, smoked trout roe, hot sauce vinaigrette, and peaches. The event celebrated culinary excellence while promoting Gulf seafood and featured a diverse judging panel. This victory marks a significant milestone for True, who previously finished second in the competition.

Cleveland Chef Wesley True Crowned 2025 King of American Seafood at Great American Seafood Cook-Off in New Orleans

New Orleans, LA – Chef Wesley True from Cleveland, Tennessee, was named the 2025 King of American Seafood at the 21st Annual Great American Seafood Cook-Off held on August 2, 2025. The prestigious culinary competition took place at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, coinciding with the Louisiana Restaurant Association Showcase.

True, who is currently the chef at Inman Social, impressed the judges with his winning dish that featured fried catfish complemented by herb aioli, smoked trout roe, hot sauce vinaigrette, and peaches. This victory marks a remarkable achievement for True, who previously finished second in the same competition in 2006.

Following True in the rankings, Chef Arnaldo Castillo from Atlanta, Georgia, claimed second place with his dish of fried Vermilion Snapper served with Georgia shrimp, Sapelo Island Clams, and jasmine rice. Chef Matt Brusca from Richmond, Virginia, rounded out the top three, presenting a dish of fried Cobia Collar paired with green romesco and a Virginia Farmer’s salad.

The competition is not only a testament to culinary excellence but also highlights the quality of Gulf seafood. Louisiana’s Lieutenant Governor, Billy Nungesser, underscored the event’s significance in promoting local seafood and encouraged chefs to feature it prominently in their restaurant offerings.

Judging Panel

The judging committee comprised a diverse group of culinary professionals, including:

Sam Fore, chef/owner of Tuk Tuk Sri Lanken Bites in Lexington, Kentucky.
Caroline Hatchett, senior editor at Plate magazine.
Edgar “Dook” Chase IV, owner and president of Chase Hospitality Group.
Chef Casey Thompson, consultant chef at Duchess in Fort Worth, Texas.

Event Overview

The Great American Seafood Cook-Off plays a critical role in promoting sustainable domestic seafood fisheries while celebrating Louisiana’s rich culinary heritage. This year’s event showcased various culinary talents, giving chefs the opportunity to demonstrate their skills using local seafood products.

Historical Context

Prior to the 2025 cook-off, other notable winners included Erin Miller from Massachusetts in 2024 and 2022, Brody Olive from Alabama in 2023, Austin Sumrall from Mississippi in 2021, and Nathan Richard from Louisiana in 2019. This history of winners reflects the breadth of culinary skills present in American seafood cuisine and the emphasis on regional ingredients.

Each installment of the Great American Seafood Cook-Off continues to serve as an important platform for chefs to hone their skills and promote seafood’s integral role in the culinary industry.

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