Coogs Go Texan: University of Houston Chefs Compete to Serve Up the Best Texas Flavors

Houston, get ready to savor the best of the Lone Star State as University of Houston Dining Services, powered by Chartwells Higher Education, brings the heat with a Texas-sized culinary showdown!

On Thursday, February 27, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Cougar Woods Dining Commons at 4277 Wheeler Ave. will transform into a foodie’s paradise as three top UH chefs—Chef Randy Abrams, Chef Benito Gavirio, and Chef Ray Soendjaya—battle it out in a barbecue-inspired cookoff. Their mission? To craft mouthwatering, Texas-themed creations that will leave UH students’ taste buds begging for more. 

More Than Just a Cookoff—A Celebration of Texas Culture

Go Texan Day at UH isn’t just about incredible food—it’s an all-out celebration of Texas culture, bringing together flavors, music, and local businesses to showcase what makes the state truly special.

  • Savor & Vote: Each chef will take over a station, whipping up their signature barbecue-infused masterpieces for students to sample and vote for their favorite.
  • Outdoor Vendor Fair: Local businesses will set up shop, offering everything from handcrafted goods to delectable treats. Look out for:
  • My Lola Bag – Chic, handcrafted accessories.
  • Finally Vegan Macarons – A delicious, plant-based twist on classic French pastries.
  • Lewis Tea & Co. – Artisanal teas with rich, bold flavors.
  • Bloom – Stylish, locally inspired apparel and gifts.
  • Boot-Scootin’ Fun: A live DJ will be spinning tracks perfect for line dancing and two-stepping, encouraging Coogs to don their best Western duds and embrace their inner cowboy or cowgirl.

Beyond the Plate: Community & Campus Engagement

  • UH Dining Services is teaming up with key partners to enhance campus life and offer more than just good food:
  • University of Houston Police Department (UHPD): Hosting a scooter and bike registration event.
  • Coca-Cola: Offering exclusive product samples to keep everyone refreshed.
  • UH Writing Center: Bringing valuable campus resources to the event.

 

Chartwells Higher Education: Bringing Innovation to Campus Dining

As the leading provider of on-campus dining experiences, Chartwells Higher Education is revolutionizing the way students connect with food. From high-tech dining spaces to sustainable, locally sourced ingredients, their goal is to make mealtime a social, joyful, and memorable experience.

With over 300 campuses nationwide, Chartwells continues to set the standard for campus dining excellence. Learn more at www.ChartwellsHigherEd.com or www.DineonCampus.com.

 

Follow the Flavor & Join the Fun!

Don’t miss out on this flavor-packed, Texas-sized showdown! Follow @uhfoodie on social media for live updates, behind-the-scenes action, and a front-row seat to all the delicious fun.

So, Coogs, grab your boots, bring your appetite, and let’s Go Texan! 🐾🔥