This year’s Iron Chef Tucson competition and Culinary Experience, which is presented by Stella Artois, is happening at the Casino Del Sol Conference Center and begins at noon on Saturday, June 29.

Before the competition, you can eat your way through the day during the Culinary Experience. Featured demos from local and national culinary experts will be available, along with products to highlight your personal culinary experience.

After that: the main event. Two competitors will face off before a panel of judges who sample their dishes, but the chefs have yet to be determined.

This year, owner and chef Wendy Gauthier is taking on the 2018 Iron Chef Tucson Champion, Brian Smith of Maynards Market and Kitchen.

The Iron Chef Tucson competition unfolds like a fast-paced television show, including a surprise ingredient that’s revealed moments before the culinary clash begins.

Also, be aware that getting a ticket to the Culinary Experience does not get you into the Iron Chef Tucson Competition.

Ticket Prices

Culinary Experience Ticket ($20)

• A showcase of cooking products, services, and demos from noon – 5 p.m.
• Appearances from restaurants and chefs that entered the competition
• Ticket does not include admission to the Iron Chef Tucson competition

General Admission Ticket ($40)

• Includes admission to the Culinary Experience from noon – 5 p.m.
• Iron Chef Tucson competition from 6 – 7:30 p.m.

VIP Admission Ticket ($75)

• Admission to the Culinary Experience from noon – 5 p.m.
• VIP Reception (hosted by Casino del Sol and three-time Iron Chef Tucson champion Chef Ryan Clark) from 3 – 5:30 p.m.
• Iron Chef Tucson competition from 6 – 7:30 p.m.

The Casino Del Sol Conference Center is located at 5655 W. Valencia Rd. For more information on the schedule and tickets, visit ironcheftucson.com.