Joe Babin does gumbo like no other. The chef’s Cajun/world fusion take on Louisiana cuisine has earned Babin a slot as a finalist in REV Birmingham’s Big Pitch on Nov. 21. This Monday, Nov. 16, Babin’s Gumbo Joe’s and The Home Brews will camp out at Matthew’s Bar and Grill to dish up their globally inspired fare beginning at 6 p.m.
Homemade gumbo, vegan gumbo, curry red beans, Cajun pho and Latin crawfish bisque are just a few items on the menu that helped to secure Babin’s place in REV’s Big Pitch. The Big Pitch is a Shark Tank-style competition featuring Birmingham’s most innovative new businesses vying for up to $25,000 in prize money, professional services and an entry into a $100,000 investment pool.
“For the Home Brews we take the beer from local brewing companies like Ghost Train, Trim Tab, Avondale and Good People then turn them into breads, mac ‘n’ cheese, etc., to make sandwiches and other creations,” Babin explained in an email.
Among the top 10 finalists are other foodie businesses like Ghost Train Brewing Company, Alloy Thai, Better Kombucha, East59 Vintage and Café, Pixie Ice Cream, Tabu’ Coffee Shop and Naughty But Nice Kettle Corn.
“Over the course of one weekend (November 19-21) 10 finalist will undergo days of grueling preparation with service providers and mentors from some of Birmingham’s top companies,” according to Rev’s website. “And it all culminates to one pitch — THE BIG PITCH — where finalists will endure the scrutiny of a panel of expert judges and a public audience.”
Matthew’s Bar and Grill is located at 2208 Morris Ave. The Big Pitch finale will take place Nov. 21 at 60 14th Street S. Tickets are $28. For more information, visit revbirmingham.com.