Hungry for something different this weekend? Instead of heading out to your favorite Westside restaurant this Friday night, consider sampling the wares of some of West Seattle's best chefs as they compete in a chili cook-off for a good cause.

At West Seattle High School Commissary on Feb. 10th from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. local restaurateurs will rally for a second annual cook-off to benefit the school's Senior Grad Night Out.

Hosted by the parents of West Seattle High School, Night Out is a safe (and fun) all night drug- and alcohol-free party to celebrate the graduation of seniors. The party includes food, music, entertainment, and is held at a mystery, surprise location. A growing trend among high schools throughout the area, senior parties are a new tradition for West Seattle, starting just one year ago with funds from the first Annual Chowder Cook-off.

Last year the cook-off entr/e of choice was chowder. Charlestown Caf/ won the "people's choice" award and Salty's took home the "celebrity choice" award. This year, after much mulling over (as organizers debated over everything from mac and cheese to chocolate cake, chili was chosen as the food of choice for the friendly competition.

Each excited to enter their own unique chili recipe, participating restaurants for 2006 include Circa Neighborhood Bistro, Charlestown Caf/, Elliott Bay Brewery, La Rustica, Ovio Bistro and the West Seattle High School Alumni (an anonymous team who is rumored to make a mean batch of this southwest-style bean soup). And along with 20 West Seattle High School seniors and numerous parent volunteers, Kitty from the high school's kitchen will be returning to serve up the tasty batches of homemade goodness.

To attend, fill up, and lend your valuable opinion, simply get your ticket at the door - tasting is anonymous. You will be given a numbered sheet to vote on each of the entries using a scale of 1 to 5 (with 5 being the highest vote). Your votes will be tallied and the "people's choice" winner will be announced at 8 p.m.

In addition, the chilies are also put to the taste test of a panel of judges. This year DJ Marty Reimer from 103.7 FM, The Mountain, is rumored to be one of the celebrity judges. Along with Reimer, the judges will vote for their favorite choice and the "celebrity choice" winner will be selected.

And as a participant, you also have a chance to win big. The evening will feature a raffle drawing with a chance to win gift certificates from local merchants such as Sun Fish, West 5, JaK's, and H &R Block (for help on your tax returns).

So you can feel good with a full belly and feel good about supporting local high school seniors when you come to the chili cook-off.

"Restaurants who commit to making chili are also making an investment in their community," says parent and volunteer Lori Wright.

And a little friendly, neighborhood competition never hurts.

(Information Box)

\What:

Chili Cook-off

Where:

West Seattle High School Commissary

3000 California Ave. S.W.

When:

Feb. 10 from 6-8 p.m.

Price:

Individuals $15

Couples $25

Students $5

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