Attendees slid into sliders during chefs’ Hot Rocks Griller Challenge

A tasty time was on the menu during the sixth annual Hot Rocks Griller Challenge Wednesday on the patio next to Elway’s Cherry Creek.

Seventeen of Denver’s greatest grillers fired up interpretations of sliders and sides to benefit the Denver Health Foundation. Winners were chosen by tokens cast in boxes. Here are the winners:

People’s Choice – 

First: Tyler Wiard and Aniedra Nichols of Elway’s Cherry Creek.

Slider:   Barbacoa torta, onion-radish slaw, grilled Oaxaca cheese, creamy avocado.

Side:    Frijoles borrachos.

Wine:    Chloe Valdadige DOC Pinot Grigio.

Second: Adam Branz of Bistro Vendôme.

Slider:   Pork belly, apricot compote, camembert, sourdough.

Side:    “Lyonnaise” potato chips.

Wine:   Chloe Sonoma Chardonnay.

Third: Felice Price of Continental Sausage/Deli.

Slider: Jackalope sausage in Wimberger’s pretzel bun with apricot mustard and grilled citrus red cabbage.

Side: German-style potato salad

Wine: Chloe Valdadige DOC Pinot Grigio.

First: Branz of Bistro Vendôme

First place desserts? Michael Bortz of City Bakery (the only dessert purveyor). A sweet end to a sweet time.

Attendees munched on juicy sliders and hearty side dishes paired with wine, live music by Chris Daniels and the Kings, a friendly competition of Pop-a-Shot and a silent auction.  And the best part?  It all helped raise awareness and funds for Denver Health Foundation’s men’s health programs.

Justin Brunson of Old Major, left, and Kevin Grossi of Lola. Below, smoked sausage with pimento cheese spread and braised collards on a Parker roll. Bottom, desserts from Michael Bortz of City Bakery.