RUMFORD — Brian’s Bistro and the Route 2 Diner were winners of the Best Flavor and Most Creative awards, respectively, at the Rumford Hospital Auxiliary Chowder Challenge.

This was the Bistro’s second straight year as the winner in the flavor category. Their entry was traditional seafood chowder. Route 2 Diner created a bacon, spinach and parmesan chowder. Other competitors were the Chicken Coop and Front Porch Café. Tasters complimented all the chowders and many said that choosing was difficult.

Formerly held at the Family Fun Festival at Black Mountain, the Chowder Challenge passed to the Auxiliary when members of the EXPO committee suggested it be a feature there, as the Black Mountain event was not on this year’s calendar. The Rumford Hospital Auxiliary took on the responsibility to supplement their other fundraisers. All proceeds from Auxiliary fundraising are donated to the hospital.