Hungry Howie's won, but not by much, with Pizza Hut and Papa John's tied for second just a few points behind. Some people like anchovies in their Caesar, and others think the salty fish can ruin it. Five members of The Ledger's Chow Line nibbled nine whole-meal salads from local restaurants last June. The top three scores were only one point apart. Red Lobster, Crisper's and Christy's Sundown took top honors when scores were tallied.
People line up in the rain to get on the judging panel.
In honor of the Fourth of July, we put six judges behind a table that ultimately held samples from 11 barbecue joints in Polk County for The Ledger's fourth examination of barbecued ribs. This time a new competitor took top honors. The Rib Crib won by a whisker over Brother's, with Peebles not far behind. Our latest taste test was chocolate cake from four Polk County bakers. Roy's Bakery in Winter Haven took top honors, far above Piccadilly, The Cookie Jar and Deli Delicacies.