Hosted by Chef Tre Wilcox
This is not a cooking demonstration
It’s culinary
competition at
full heat.
Inside TRE Cooking Concepts’ intimate Kitchen Stadium, the clock starts, mystery basket is unveiled, the competition begins, and two chefs have 45 minutes to create tasting dishes worthy of the judges’ table.
Chef Tre Wilcox calls the action while guests enjoy cocktails, complimentary bites, interactive vendors and every high-pressure moment from just feet away.
2026–2027 series
Choose your
showdown.
Every event is a standalone live battle. Pick your favorite matchup, or experience all five nights.
The 2026–2027 roster
Meet the chefs
entering the arena.
Ten accomplished culinary personalities. Five head-to-head matchups. One chance to cook boldly under the lights.
Executive Chef
Ben McCracken
Armor Brewing Company · Allen, TX
Mexican and Texan roots. Bold, purposeful execution.
Meet the chef →
Executive Chef
Henry Johnson
Palladino’s · Dallas, TX
Southern inspiration. Refined technique. National-stage experience.
Meet the chef →
Executive Chef / Owner
Tom Fleming
Crossroads Diner · Plano, TX
French training meets scratch-made Texas comfort.
Meet the chef →
Executive Chef
Rodman Shields
Milkshake Concepts · Frisco, TX
Modern American creativity built on ingredient-driven precision.
Meet the chef →
Chef de Cuisine
Nick Paladino
Meridian · Dallas, TX
Seasonal ingredients, refined technique, globally inspired flavor.
Meet the chef →
Executive Chef / Owner
Albert “Rocky” Lavalais IV
DNoir Cajun Cuisine · Van Alstyne, TX
Authentic Louisiana traditions, elevated for North Texas.
Meet the chef →
Corporate Chef
Israel Fearon
Hardwood Hospitality Group · Dallas, TX
Classic technique with seasonal, approachable flavor.
Meet the chef →
More than the battle
Come hungry.
Stay for the whole
experience.
01
TRE Bites
Kobe beef sliders, crispy vegetable arancini and pork belly or chicken satays.
02
Signature Cocktails
Two cocktails are included with each ticket, courtesy of Island Getaway Rum.
03
Tastings & Vendors
Poeman & Friends Hot Sauce samples, a premium custom hat bar by Ken Randall for purchase.
04
Extra Flavor
Chef DNoir Cajun Cuisine Food Truck offers additional food and beverages for purchase.
05
Strike a Pose
Step into our interactive photo booth, strike a pose and own the spotlight!
CHEF TRE WILCOX
HOST · FOUNDER · CULINARY AUTHORITY
Your host
Chef Tre Wilcox
One of Dallas–Fort Worth’s best-known chefs and the founder of TRE Cooking Concepts, Chef Tre Wilcox created Monday Night Chef SmackDown to celebrate local culinary talent and give guests a live entertainment experience unlike a traditional dinner or demonstration.
“May the best chef win.”
Together We Deliver
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Our Partners
Monday Night Chef SmackDown is made possible through the support of partners who share our passion for culinary excellence, community, and unforgettable live experiences. Their involvement helps bring Kitchen Stadium to life while connecting guests with outstanding brands, products, and experiences throughout the event series.
Know before you go
Frequently asked
questions.