Skip to Content
Advertisement
News

Porchetta for a Good Cause in Northern New Jersey

Nine talented chefs from northern NJ brought their version of porchetta to Gioia Mia restaurant for a friendly competition to raise funds.

9:00 AM EDT on June 19, 2025

Contestants and judges from the Porchetta Throwdown Competition in northern New Jersey.

Contestants and judges from the Porchetta Throwdown Competition in northern New Jersey.

Nine of north Jersey’s most talented chefs gathered at Gioia Mia restaurant in Montclair on June 16th for the first-ever Porchetta Throwdown, a culinary competition celebrating the beloved Italian roasted pork dish while raising funds for the nonprofit organization Table to Table.

Attendees had the opportunity to sample each chef's unique interpretation of this classic Italian preparation and vote for their favorite. In addition, there was an official judges' panel, which included Appetito’s Editor-in-Chief, Andrew Cotto.

The respective Porchetta Throwdown winners, Jeff Gallan and Cara Di Falco.

The judge’s panel awarded the top prize to Chef Jeff Gallan of Fossil Farms, while the people’s choice went to the event’s host, Cara Di Falco of Cara's Cucina.

"This competition brings together some of our area's most creative culinary minds to showcase their skills with a dish that's close to every Italian American's heart," said Ms. Di Falco. "But more importantly, we're doing it for a great cause – supporting Table to Table's mission to fight hunger in our communities."

More Stories

Erbazzone: The Savory Pie Reggio Emilia Eats for Breakfast

Cappuccino meets its unlikely match in crisp pastry filled with greens, pancetta and cheese.

October 23, 2026

It’s the Season for Noni’s Autumn Sauce

This savory autumn sauce features roasted butternut squash rendered perfectly silky with no need for cream

October 23, 2026

Vinitaly.USA in NYC: A New Chapter for Italian Wine in America

Vinitaly.USA brings Italy’s regional diversity, culinary heritage, and commercial ambitions to New York October 26-27.

October 22, 2026

Salumeria Rosi’s Cacio e Pepe Is Worth a Visit to the East Village

Come for the cured meats and cheeses and stay for a memorable bowl of cacio e pepe.

October 22, 2026

5 Italian Super Soups for Fall, According to Dietitians

Beans, greens and hearty broths make these comforting bowls a nourishing seasonal choice.

October 22, 2026

Pasta Wednesday, Week 3: Spaghetti with Shrimp Fra Diavolo

Joanna Moeller continues her weekly October pasta celebration with spaghetti in a spicy shrimp fra diavalo sauce.

October 21, 2026