BLOCK ISLAND, RI – May 2025 — A signature taste of Block Island rose to the top this weekend as Ballard’s claimed first place in the annual BIMI ChowdaFest, winning over the crowd with its rich, traditional New England clam chowder.
The event, hosted by the Block Island Maritime Institute (BIMI), drew hundreds of locals and visitors alike to taste and vote in a blind sampling of chowders from twelve local restaurants. The tasting was served by students from the Block Island School, giving the event its signature community flavor while raising funds for BIMI’s Aquarium and Exploration Center.
2025 ChowdaFest Winners:
- 1st Place – Ballard’s (Entry #9)
- 2nd Place – Poor People’s Pub (Entry #6)
- 3rd Place – The National Hotel (Entry #12)
Ballard’s win marked a major highlight for the beloved beachfront restaurant, known for its vibrant atmosphere and seafood-forward menu. Their chowder, which featured fresh local clams, a creamy house-made broth, and balanced seasoning, earned top marks from tasters for its authenticity and depth of flavor.
“We’re proud to serve a dish that represents the best of New England’s coastal tradition,” said a Ballard’s representative. “This win means a lot—especially because it came directly from the people of Block Island and our guests.”
Poor People’s Pub, a crowd favorite from the island’s west side, took a strong second with a bold, peppery chowder that brought a bit of rustic flair to the mix. Meanwhile, The National impressed voters with a smooth, classic take on the dish that earned them a well-deserved third.
About the Event
Now a staple of the Block Island summer season, BIMI ChowdaFest is more than a contest—it’s a celebration of food, community, and local pride. Proceeds benefit the BIMI Aquarium and Exploration Center, which provides hands-on marine education to local youth and visitors.
The blind-tasting format ensures a level playing field for all competitors, with each restaurant assigned a number known only to event organizers. Guests sample all entries and cast votes based solely on taste and experience.
Participating restaurants this year included:
- Dead Eye Dicks
- Champlin’s
- Mohegan Restaurant & Bar
- Beachead
- Poor People’s Pub
- Kimberly’s
- Winfields
- Ballard’s
- Aldo’s
- Atlantic Inn
- The National
As the summer season kicks off, Ballard’s big win sets the tone for food lovers visiting the island. If you’re heading to Block Island in 2025, their award-winning New England clam chowder is officially a must-try.
For more information on BIMI’s events or to support marine education, visit blockislandmaritime.org.
