THORN + ROOTS WINS #1 CHILI IN SARATOGA

Saratoga Springs, NY – February 1, 2025 – The heat was on at the 12th Annual Chili Bowl Fundraiser at the Saratoga Springs City Center, hosted by the Saratoga Clay Arts Center. With over 1,000 attendees, this year’s event marked one of the largest turnouts in Chili Bowl history. Local favorites, including Kindred (2024 Champion), THORN + ROOTS, Dizzy Chicken, Franklin Square Market, and LAGO by DRUTHER’S, served up their best chili creations, competing for the top spot.

This year’s champion? THORN + ROOTS, taking FIRST PLACE with their Impossible Chili, proving that when it comes to great taste, nothing is impossible. Competing against bold flavors like Oxtail Chili Con Carne, BBQ Sweet Hot Chili, and Pulled Pork Chili, THORN + ROOTS’ plant-based masterpiece stole the show, demonstrating that healthy, plant-powered dishes can stand up to the best of them.

Among the notable attendees were Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner and Congressman Paul D. Tonko, who joined in celebrating Saratoga’s vibrant food scene and the incredible community support for the arts.

Chef Allen Caruso, the mastermind behind the winning Impossible Chili, shared his motivation:
"I wanted to challenge myself and show that plant-based foods are just as incredible—being the thorn in the side of what health should taste like."

At THORN + ROOTS, their mission is simple: serve up the fastest, healthiest, and freakishly good-tasting grain bowls, salads, killer avocado toasts, açaí smoothie bowls, smoothies, paninis, and cold-pressed organic juices. Located in Saratoga Springs, NY, at 46 Marion Ave, they’re here to fuel your cravings—whether you’re dining in, ordering online, or grabbing through DoorDash or UberEats. And if you’re looking for the best catering menu around, they’ve got you covered.

Missed the event? Don’t worry—you can now order the award-winning Impossible Chili at THORN + ROOTS starting today! 

Follow them on social @thornandroots to stay in the loop!