Here are the winners of WMSE’s 2024 Rockabilly Chili Fundraiser

More than 3,700 hungry Milwaukeeans flocked to the MSOE Kern Center on Sunday for WMSE’s 22nd annual Rockabilly Chili Fundraiser. While there, these hearty chili lovers sampled more than 40 chilis from oodles of Milwaukee restaurants, cafes, and caterers. There was Lakefront beer. There was WMSE merch. There was a special “Formula 91.7” hot sauce from A&M Provisions. And, like we said before, there was a ton of people.

And there was voting! Attendees voted for their favorite chilis in five categories: Best Meat, Best Veggie, Best Heat, Most Unique, and Best Display. Here are this year’s winners—plus a special report from Milwaukee weather expert and chili lover Bert Lauderdale!

BEST MEAT: Red Maple MKE
Runners-up: Buttermint, The Wolf on Broadway

BEST VEGGIE: Twisted Plants
Runners-up: Beans & Barley, Riverwest Co-op

BEST HEAT: Ruta’s Fresh Indian Fare
Runners-up: Crafty Cow, Lakefront Brewery

MOST UNIQUE: Ruta’s Fresh Indian Fare
Runners-up: The Wolf on Broadway, Buttermint

BEST DISPLAY: Beans & Barley
Runners-up: Bakehouse 23, Twisted Plants

“With thousands of guests judging chili created by more than 40 contestants, our turnout was exceptional,” said WMSE Station Manager Tom Crawford in a press release. “We’re deeply grateful for the overwhelming support that ensures our station’s financial stability throughout the year. It’s heartwarming to see our community come together to celebrate WMSE, local eateries, and of course, delicious chili. Our competitors’ dedication and our voters’ seriousness make Rockabilly Chili special. If you couldn’t make it this year or are craving more, please support all our incredible contestants throughout the year.”