T
he Krewe of Bananimals hosted their annual Chili Cook-Off on January 20,
at the Break Beach Bar on Pensacola Beach. The Krewe was founded 26 years
ago, and the cook-off is in its fourth year running. President Nick Radcliffe
said there are no rules when it comes to what can be put in people’s chili, in
terms of beans and meats. “Rude, Crude, and Socially Unacceptable” is the Krewe of
Bananimals motto, and they are not shy about sharing their chili-making secrets. The
Krewe prides themselves on their donations to local charities, with most of their profit
coming from water bottle sales at Blue Angels’ events. Last year, they raised $14,000 at
the air shows and donated it to the Santa Rosa Kids House.
Contestants delivered their chili to The Break Beach Bar in a crock pot with their name
on the side of the pot. Judges then sampled each chili and voted on the best dish. All
chili awards were based on the judge’s decision. Entries were allowed any red chili with
or without beans, and with or without meat. Winning by one vote only, first place was
awarded to four-year reigning Krewe of Bananimals Chili Cook-Off champion team of
Taylor Bonnin and Larry Oliver. Second place was awarded to Tim Morgan. Third place
was awarded to Kimberly Bailey.
After the winners were announced, everyone else was invited to eat the chili.
photos & story by
Kristina Wright
VIP Pensacola at The Break Beach Bar
4th Annul Krewe of Bananimals
Chili Cook-off
March 2019 | 15
Tammy Bonnin & Larry Oliver
Nick Radcliff & Jamie Gilbert
Dakota McDowell, Merissa McDowel & Margaret Johnson
Gloria & Jack Strother
Joe Raley & Jean Butler
Melissa Talbot & Kyle Gibbs
Leo & Darra Flanagan
EventSpread_KreweofBananimals_Mar19.indd 1
2/25/19 8:38 PM