Crestview’s grilling guru: Sherri Williams wins regional grilling competition, advances to New York

Crestview's Sherri Williams, left, joins fellow Southwest region competitors Andre Alban and Josee Lanzi for the regional Macy’s Great American Grilling Guru Sizzle Showdown.

CRESTVIEW — Local chef Sherri Williams has earned a spot in the Macy’s Great American Grilling Guru Sizzle Showdown.

The Southwest regional contest, held June 7 in Charlotte, N.C., was one of six regionals that were part of Macy’s quest for “the country’s ultimate master of the grill.”

Williams competed with two Florida residents. The trio had one hour to prepare their grilled dishes, presenting them to “Iron Chef America” celebrity chef Cora Cat for judging.

Williams’ Grilled Thai Lamb Loin Chops was selected over Josee Lanzi’s Shrimp and Apricot Stuffed Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Spicy Apricot, and Andre Alban’s Steak and Potato Sliders.

Williams will advance with winners of the five other regional competitions to New York on June 28 to compete for the title of America’s Greatest Grilling Guru, a $10,000 prize, and a trip to New York for the 2015 Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks.

Chef Sam Talbot, a “Top Chef” contestant and author of a cookbook for diabetics, hosted the Charlotte event.

Email News Bulletin Staff Writer Brian Hughes at brianh@crestviewbulletin.com, follow him on Twitter @cnbBrian or call 850-682-6524.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Crestview’s grilling guru: Sherri Williams wins regional grilling competition, advances to New York