Place Name: First Place Contestant Name: Sebastian Modak Entry Title: More Than "Amore" Entry Credit: Sebastian Modak Judge Comment: Absolutely more than amore!! Superb travel feature about Puglia by Modak. It is a mouthwatering and mesmerizing blend of culinary and culture, then vs. now, passion and practicality from start to finish. The reader is right there with Sebastian Modak when he meets and quotes the chef, the butcher, the baker and the cheese monger. Culinary travel beckons at its best.
Place Name: Second Place Contestant Name: Adam Erace Entry Title: The Hunger Games Entry Credit: Adam Erace Judge Comment: WOW-ode to Osaka! The writer beautifully presents a glorious blend of a true cultural and culinary journey — step by step, taste by taste, sip by sip, bite by bite. A delicious piece in every way.
Place Name: Third Place Contestant Name: Naomi Tomky Entry Title: In the Smallest State in Mexico, A Search for the Perfect Taco Entry Credit: Naomi Tomky Judge Comment: A flavor-filled, taste-riveting piece as Naomi Tomky takes readers on a culinary Mexican rollercoaster ride seeking out barbacoa, the mouthwatering local roasted meat dish. They take pleasure in her travels and delight when her search is delectably delivered. Great weaving of her experience that can be enjoyed from the piece or used as a guide should they go. Excellent!
Place Name: Honorable Mention Contestant Name: Food Trail Traveler Entry Title: In Search of Vintage Napa Valley Entry Credit: Spud Hilton Judge Comment: A gem of travel writing. This article captures the forgotten vibe of an area with humor, detail, history and personality as well as encouraging traveling readers to visit. The reporting is a strength and the writing so evocative that readers envision themselves in the midst of things, enjoying every second.
