This afternoon, hundreds of folks gathered for the 5th Annual El Pedregal Cinco de Mayo Salsa Festival in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Six local restaurants brought out their best salsas, with many of them bringing two or three different flavors, all hoping to walk away with bragging rights to the best salsa in town.

Emceed by ABC 15 Television’s Andi Barness from Sonoran Living Live, guests were invited to sample specialty salsa recipes from around the valley by some of the most distinguished restaurants including the Spotted Donkey Cantina, El Encanto, Tonto Bar & Grill, the Palo Verde at the Boulders Resort and more, while listening to festive Latin, Jazz and American hits on stage by the popular, Freddie Duran Plan band.

In addition, there were tequila tastings from Chamucos Tequila, and The Bakery Café featured traditional Mexican desserts and beverages while the Boulders outdoor grill cooked up hot items including tacos al carbon, and tostada de carnitas.  YUM!

The Roaming Boomers® were honored to be a part of the guest judges panel, and here’s how the winners stacked up:

• 1st Place – Cantina Laredo
• 2nd Place – Palo Verde at The Boulders Resort
• Most Innovative – Spotted Donkey’s Jicama Salsa
• Spiciest – 3 Margaritas.

Congratulations to the winners, and we look forward to next years event.