Oshawa Food Fight 2026 Nomination Form

The Oshawa Food Fight is back, and we're calling all restaurants in the city to join the culinary battle of the year! This year's competition introduces five exciting categories to showcase the best of Oshawa's dining scene. Do you have what it takes to claim the title of the city's culinary champion?

Important Note: To enter, your restaurant must be available and willing to participate in the live showdown at Boujee Bites 2026, which will take place on Thursday, July 9, from 5 to 8 p.m. at The Canadian Tank Museum. Participation includes providing bite-sized samples of your competing dish to event attendees. Restaurants will receive a small honorarium to assist with food costs.

The 2026 Categories

1. Street Food Smackdown

Big flavour. No limits.

This category celebrates the bold, crave-worthy street eats that stop people in their tracks. From elevated food truck favourites to handheld comfort classics, Street Food Smackdown is all about dishes that are fast, fearless, and unforgettable. If it's messy in the best way and keeps guests coming back for more, it belongs here.

Examples of qualifying dishes: Gourmet tacos, loaded fries, smash burgers, shawarma, street-style skewers, specialty hot dogs.

2. Battle of the Bowls

One bowl. Endless possibilities.

Some of the world's most comforting and creative dishes are served in a bowl. This category recognizes layered flavour, thoughtful composition, and satisfying presentation all in one perfectly curated vessel. Whether hearty and comforting or fresh and vibrant, this is your opportunity to showcase balance, texture, and culinary creativity.

Examples of qualifying dishes: Ramen, risotto, poke bowls, burrito bowls, noodle bowls, grain bowls.

3. Dessert Duel

Indulgence takes centre stage.

Dessert Duel is where sweetness meets showmanship. This category invites bakers, pastry chefs, and dessert innovators to present their most irresistible creations. From modern twists on beloved classics to bold, original confections, we are looking for desserts that leave a lasting impression. Presentation, flavour, and that undeniable wow factor will set contenders apart.

Examples of qualifying dishes: Cakes, cheesecakes, cookies, specialty donuts, pastries, plated desserts.

4. Fusion Face-Off

Where culinary worlds collide.

Fusion Face-Off celebrates innovation and global inspiration. This category highlights dishes that thoughtfully blend cultures, flavours, and techniques into something entirely new. Push boundaries while honouring tradition and demonstrate how unexpected combinations can create extraordinary results.

Examples of qualifying dishes: Korean tacos, butter chicken poutine, sushi burritos, cross-cultural mashups, globally inspired comfort food.

5. The App Attack

Small plates. Big impact.

The App Attack recognizes the power of a strong first impression. These sharable starters and snackable bites may be small in size, but they deliver serious flavour. This category is about creativity, execution, and crafting an opening act that sets the tone for the entire dining experience.

Examples of qualifying dishes: Dumplings, wings, sliders, bruschetta, spring rolls, croquettes.

How to Enter

Nominate yourself here by submitting a menu item (or multiple items) for any of the categories. The only requirements are that the dish be prepared in-house, sold to customers, and fit the category criteria.

To qualify, your restaurant must:

• Be available to participate in the live showdown at Boujee Bites 2026 on July 9, from 5 to 8 p.m.

• Provide bite-sized samples of your competing dish for event attendees.

• Be willing to appear in a promotional video showcasing your restaurant and dish in May 2026.

If you're unsure whether your dish qualifies, contact us to confirm eligibility.

Competition Timeline

Semi-finals will be decided via a public vote to determine the top two restaurants in each category. Finalists will compete at Boujee Bites 2026 on Thursday, July 9, from 5 to 8 p.m., at The Canadian Tank Museum. Attendees will vote for their favourite dish, and winners will be crowned at the event.

Finalist Perks

Finalists will receive a small honorarium to assist with food costs for Boujee Bites, financial compensation for attending and providing samples, and participation in a promotional video to spotlight their restaurant and competing dish.

Ready to take on the competition? Nominate your restaurant today, and let the Food Fight begin!

Thank you for entering! We will be in touch soon.