Wade Penland, the Executive Chef and Managing Partner of The Bistro, has secured a coveted spot on Team Lake Murray Country after winning the hearts and taste buds of attendees at the Taste of Lake Murray (TOLM) event. Penland’s impressive culinary skills and popularity led to his selection via popular vote, making him the People’s Choice Winner at this year’s Taste of Lake Murray.
Expressing his excitement, Penland stated, “I am thrilled and humbled to represent Lake Murray Country at the World Food Championships this year. The opportunity to showcase our region is truly an honor that I can’t put into words. I look forward to representing The Bistro well and making our community proud.”
The Taste of Lake Murray, held on March 21 at the DoubleTree by Hilton, served as the “South Carolina Super Regional Qualifier” event for the World Food Championships (WFC). Penland’s victory in the people’s choice process earned him a spot on Team Lake Murray Country for 2024.
Team Lake Murray Country 2024 comprises Chef Chris Williams, Owner and Chef of Roy’s Grille & BBQ, Inc., who also serves as the 2022 SC Chef Ambassador and achieved 2nd place overall in 2023, and Chef Mike Ellis of LTC Hospitality Group, who secured 8th place overall in 2023. Penland joins this esteemed team as the Taste of Lake Murray People’s Choice Winner for 2024.
At the upcoming 12th Annual World Food Championships scheduled for November 8-12 in Indianapolis, Illinois, Penland, Ellis, and Williams will compete against some of the world’s best cooks across 12 categories, including Bacon, Barbecue, Burger, Chef, Dessert, and more.
The World Food Championships is a premier multi-day culinary competition where participants vie for food, fame, and fortune, showcasing their culinary prowess and creativity to judges and audiences alike. With Penland on board, Team Lake Murray Country is poised for success and ready to make their mark at this prestigious event.
Team Lake Murray Country is ready to represent the Palmetto State at the World Food Championships, November 8-12, in Indianapolis, Illinois. Pictured from left to right are Chef Wade Penland, Chef Chris Williams, and Chef Michael Ellis.
