Try exotic foods for free at the International Cook-Off

Jessica Costello

Students have a chance to sample foods from foreign countries like Saudi Arabia and India at the International Cook-Off at 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday in Eastway Center.

Eight teams will compete in the cook-off hosted by the Office of International Affairs and Eastway Center.

“Our goal has also been to give international students a place to showcase their culture and also for domestic students to be able to try authentic cuisine from different countries,” said Jessica Cohen, marketing coordinator for the Office of International Affairs.

Students can watch teams prepare food “Top Chef” style and listen to music from around the world starting at 4 p.m.

Two staff members from Kent State will be judging the competition at 6 p.m. Teams will be judged based on taste, appeal and if they provide an “over-the-top” factor, such as traditional garments from that of their culture. Students can also vote on their favorite team. The team that wins the most votes from the crowd will receive the “Fan Favorite Award.”

After the judging, students can enjoy free food samples from China, India, Israel, Lebanon, Indonesia, Greece, Italy and Saudi Arabia. Students can also indulge in homemade ice cream made by the Eastway Center staff.

First place winners will receive $100 in Flashcash, which can be used at any dining hall or off-campus approved eatery. Second place will receive $50 in Flashcash, and third place takes home $25 in Flashcash.

“We really want to promote that all Kent students get involved, anyone who maybe has a recipe passed down from their family they want to share,” Cohen said. “Every person has a heritage to share and this is a good way to share it.”

-Jessica Costello is the international affairs, graduate and undergraduate reporter.