CLEVELAND, Tenn. (WDEF) – Chef Wesley True of Inman Social in Cleveland, Tennessee, has been crowned the 2025 King of American Seafood after winning the prestigious Great American Seafood Cook-Off in New Orleans.
Held at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, the annual competition brought together top chefs from across the U.S. True wowed the judges with his dish: fried catfish with herb aioli, smoked trout roe, hot sauce vinaigrette and peaches.
He says competing in shows like Top Chef and Beat Bobby Flay helped prepare him for the pressure of high-stakes cooking.
Louisiana Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser, who hosted the event, said the competition showcased exceptional talent and the culinary versatility of Gulf seafood.
The runner-up was Chef Arnaldo Castillo from Tio Lucho’s in Atlanta, while Chef Matt Brusca of Alewife in Richmond took third place.
Judges included nationally acclaimed chefs and food writers such as Sam Fore, Casey Thompson, and Caroline Hatchett.
Chef True says that while Tennessee may not have its own coast, fresh seafood can still shine in the Volunteer State with creativity and passion.
