Malibu Chili Cook-Off heats up for a meaningful return
By Judy Abel · Sat Aug 22 2026
Local chefs and past champions prepare for a Labor Day weekend showdown as the beloved community tradition returns to support Boys & Girls Club of Malibu
Excitement is building for the biggest social event to hit Malibu in two years: the Malibu Chili Cook-Off. While residents get a chance to connect with friends and neighbors and school kids get a chance to blow off steam as school begins and summer comes to an end, local chefs are fine-tuning their recipes for a showdown on who makes the best of the namesake’s event.
The Chili-Cook-off took a hiatus last year in the wake of the devastating Palisades Fire and in a year when organizers, the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu, most needed to raise funds critical for the organization to support the community in its greatest time of need. This year’s event promises to be more meaningful than ever as Malibu has begun the process of rebuilding the community and looks toward a brighter future.
The draw for the festival, Labor Day Weekend, September 4-6, has always been community and raising funds for theBGCM’s mission to support local school children’s programs, mental health, and disaster relief for the multiple fires that have leveled Malibu neighborhoods. But the Chili contest draws guests from far and wide as well as chefs with one goal in mind: to make the best chili in California.
The lineup of competitors this year is strong.
Presenting partner of the Malibu Chili Cook-Off, Aviator Nation Dreamland, is debuting its homemade chili this year, which claims to carry the same soul and community spirit that has defined the brand from the start. Chef Sergio Torres promises his creation will be “smoky, bold, and flavorful.”
Pickles & Peas is coming in from Los Angeles with its Mediterranean twist on chili using what its chefs call recipes handed down through generations and reimagined in what they call “a colossal collision of flavors.” Pickles & Peas, which operates a food truck in LA, has a devoted following and says it’s bringing that energy to the chili pot in Malibu.
More exotic chili will be concocted by Chimmelier, also from Los Angeles. Korean pocha culture goes head to head in the competitive chili field. Chimmelier’s chefs claim their chili is designed to be instantly recognizable, emotionally memorable, and culturally rooted. Expect a taste unlike anything else on the judging table.
The Malibu outpost of Irv’s Burgers will be serving up the classic chili the Route 66 icon has been cooking for 70 years that its chefs say is built on the ethos of history, pride, and community. The Malibu location proudly displays past Malibu Chili Cook-Off awards in the restaurant.
New to Malibu, but long serving up Southern hospitality, is Clark’s Oyster Bar and its chili recipe its chefs hope to win on their first entry. Originating in Austin, Texas, expect a no beans chili, with meat and “depth of flavor.”
The popular chain Tacos 1986 is a first-time contestant bringing the soul of Tijuana’s late-night taco scene, now with chili on their mind. Chefs Jorge “Joy” Alvarez-Tostado and Victor Delgado say if people drive across LA for their fare, their homemade chili will certainly be worth the drive to Malibu.
Past winner, Universal Music Group, is returning to defend their third-year title. You may remember its deliciousness. If not, they invite you to taste what the fuss is all about .
Another past winner, Duke’s Malibu, is an institution locally and back open for business. Chef Chevy and Chef Calvin have teamed up, so first place is officially on notice.
Malibu Brewing Company is partnering with the local Fire Brigade in what it calls “local spirit, epic chili.” Chef Steven says expect “fresh and tons of flavor” in his community inspired recipe cooked “low and slow.”
Howdy’s Sonrisa Cafe is popular with its steady menu of local Mexican favorite dishes but promises something different this year with “one of the weekend’s biggest surprises.”
Newly opened pizzeria Papa Razzi’s in Pt. Dume Plaza, operated by Pita Bu’s chef Oren Zroya, enters the challenge for the first time after “20 years of watching other people win.” With Zroya behind the stove, he’s one to watch now.
And rounding out the contestants this year is Cherry, a newly opened clothing brand in Cross Creek that celebrates classic American style and delicious chili to delight your taste buds.
With a lineup of incredible chefs, there is also a crew of knowledgeable, well-known judges who know their way around a great bowl of chili, including Duff Goldman, Marcel Vigneron, and food writers from the Los Angeles Times who will join other food critics, journalists, community members, and special guests.
Head judge Mel Nahas says the judges will be basing their decision on five elements: color, aroma, consistency, taste, and importantly, aftertaste. “After a few seconds, what about it makes you want to go in for that second spoonful?” Nahas previewed.
With delectable-sounding chili and 100% of net proceeds benefiting the Boys & Girls Club Malibu’s youth programs, mental health support, and the long-term recovery of our community following the fires, this year’s Malibu Chili Cook-Off appears to be a tasty way to celebrate this Labor Day weekend.