Lafayette’s Own Wins Big At Louisiana Seafood Cook-Off

(KMDL-FM) A highly respected chef at one of Lafayette, Louisiana's iconic downtown eateries is trading in his toque blanche for a crown. Kris Allen, of Pamplona Tapas Bar and Restaurant, earned the title of King of Louisiana Seafood in a culinary competition on Saturday, June 27th, 2026.

orange and white fish on white and black pebbles

The Louisiana Seafood Cook Off is sponsored by the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board. Each year, several chefs from around Louisiana are invited to participate and share their spin on a unique and exciting way to share Louisiana seafood with the rest of the world.

What Dish Won the 2026 Louisiana Seafood Cook-Off?

Chef Allen's creation for the competition was a crab-stuffed flounder. Chef Allen, who I think is being a bit modest in his comments, made sure to give credit where credit is due. He spoke of the time and effort that was put into the creation of the dish. And he also suggested in comments reported by KLFY.com,

Louisiana seafood is simply the best seafood in the world to cook with. The freshness, quality and incredible variety inspire every dish, and it’s an honor to showcase the hardworking fishermen and producers who make our seafood second to none.

I am sure the judges had their work cut out for them as a dozen incredible chefs brought their "A" game to the competition. But Chef Allen and his crab-stuffed flounder ruled the evening,

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Chef Chris Vasquez of Ralph's on the Park in New Orleans earned second-place honors. The third-place honors went to Chef Jared Heider of Junior's on Harrison. That restaurant is also located in New Orleans.

Up next for Chef Allen, as the newly crowned King of Louisiana Seafood, is the  22nd Annual Great American Seafood Cook-Off in New Orleans on July 25. Chef Allen will also serve as Louisiana's Seafood Ambassador until next year's Louisiana Seafood Cook-Off.