NEMA Ruchimelam 2026 Chef's Questionaire

When and where will Ruchimelam take place?
 Address: ELKS Lodge, 34 Powder Mill Rd, Maynard, MA 01754
 Date & Time: June 6th, 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM

Is there a participation fee for chefs?
 Yes, chefs are required to pay the ticket charge/vendor fee.

Can a team consist of just one chef?
 Yes, a team can have a minimum of one chef and a maximum of six registered chefs.

Do all chefs need to be registered?
 Yes, all participating chefs must be registered either through the form or by contacting the core team. For teams with multiple members, the group leader must submit the names of all chefs to the organizing committee.

Do chefs need to be NEMA members?
 No, NEMA membership is not required.

Is there an entry fee for attendees who want to purchase food?
 Yes, there will be a minimal ticket fee for all attendees.

What kind of dish can I prepare?
 You may prepare any dish—main course, snack, or dessert—as long as it hasn’t already reached the maximum number of similar entries. Dish selection must be submitted during registration, and the organizing committee may suggest alternatives to ensure variety.

How much food should I prepare?
 A minimum of 25 servings is required. There is no upper limit. Final guidance may be provided based on total attendance.

Can I prepare more than one dish?
 Yes, you are allowed to prepare multiple dishes.

Will there be multiple dishes of the same type?
 Yes, Ideally

What time should chefs arrive at the venue?
 Chefs should arrive by 10:00 AM.

How many attendees are expected?
 Approximately 300+ attendees.

How should food be kept at the right temperature?
 Bring food in aluminum trays along with wire racks, heating gel, or ice as needed. Electric appliances such as microwaves are not permitted. Notify the team in advance if you have special requirements.

How will payments be handled?
 Teams can collect payments directly via cash, Venmo, or Zelle.

Who can participate as a chef?
 This event is exclusively for home cooks. Caterers may participate only in the capacity of home chefs and may not represent or promote their business during the event. Business representation or promotion is not permitted. 

How should I price my dishes?
 Pricing is at your discretion, but reasonable pricing is encouraged as this is a community event.

Will food be available for dine-in or takeout?
 Both options are allowed, depending on the chef’s preference.

Will utensils be provided?
 No, chefs must bring their own utensils, including plates, spoons, napkins, and takeout containers. Eco-friendly options are encouraged.

Will tables and chairs be provided?
 Yes. A minimum of 1 table and a maximum of 2 tables will be provided, depending on the number of items in the menu. Minimal no of chairs will be made available if needed.

Will assistance be available at the venue?
 Yes, please inform the organizing team during registration or at least 48 hours prior if you need assistance.

Can I decorate my stall?
 Yes, you may decorate your space. Decorations must fit within your allocated area and be removed after the event.

Do I need to display ingredients?
 Yes, displaying ingredients is recommended as part of an allergen statement.

Are gloves required?
 Yes, all participants must wear gloves, aprons, and caps (bouffant caps).

Do I need to include an allergen statement?
 Yes. Example:
 “Allergy statement: Menu items may contain or come into contact with wheat, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, and milk. Please speak with the chef for more details.”

Is there a minimum age requirement?
 No. Children can participate with a registered adult as the group leader.

What is the maximum team size?
 A maximum of 6 members per team, including the group leader.

Are sample tastings required?
 No, providing samples is optional.

Can I display a poster or banner?
 Yes, but it must fit within your stall and be placed on the table or a stand. Wall mounting is not allowed.

How many people can stay at the counter?
 Only the team leader and a minimal number of members should be present to avoid overcrowding.

Can I bring food from a restaurant?
 No, all food must be prepared by participating chefs.

Can cooking be done at the venue?
 No. Live cooking is not allowed this year and indoor space is for pre-prepared food.

Will burners be provided?
 No,  Live cooking is not allowed this year.

What is the registration cancellation policy?
 To be determined (TBD).



Chef Checklist:

Items to be brought:

Optional based on team preference: