PRESS RELEASE
September 7, 2007

Back to Defend the Title - 2006 Best Shrimp Dish

Chef Simon Andrews and his team will be back to defend their title of Best Shrimp Dish at the 2nd annual Shrimpin' & Shaggin' Festival on September 16th at the Charleston Maritime Center. Chef Simon's Shrimp and Grits recipe was chosen as the winner last year by Chef Bob Waggoner of Charleston Grill. The popular dish is a featured item at many catered events at the Francis Marion Hotel and is also available in the Swamp Fox Restaurant and Bar.

The recipe features many of the familiar ingredients such as Tasso ham, stone ground grits, and local shrimp, of course. The twist in flavor comes from extremely creamy grits blended with freshly grated Pepper Jack cheese as well as a savory lobster gravy. The final recipe and complete ingredients list remain a secret, but the results are well-known.

Chef de Cuisine Ryan Kacenjar joined the hotel's Swamp Fox Restaurant earlier this year. Chef Ryan will be cooking up another local favorite - Shrimp Gumbo! Spicy Andouille sausage and sweet local shrimp are combined with a blend of local vegetables and fresh herbs in this tasty dish.

Join the staff of the Francis Marion Hotel, local fans, and shag dancers alike to cheer on Chef Simon Andrews and his team. The festival starts at eleven o'clock, with the recipe contest at one o'clock in the afternoon.

This Lowcountry event combines two of Charleston's most loved traditions - eating mouth-watering shrimp dishes and dancing to favorite shag tunes both old and new. The best local caterers will be on hand cookin' up their finest shrimp recipes, while the best shaggers in town, as well as a few amateurs, will be dancing to the beloved sounds of beach music performed by The Men of Distinction and East Coast Party Band. Beer, wine from Geyser Peak Winery, Smirnoff Vodka Bloody Mary's as well as non-alcoholic beverages will also be available for purchase. Admission is $10 at the gate, advance tickets available for $9 at your local Bi-Lo grocery store.