2009 Grilled Cheese Invitational

One man wears his support for cheese on his head.  (Robert Takata / For The Times)

Competitors in the 2009 Grilled Cheese Invitational.  (Robert Takata / For The Times)

Keeping the frying pans hot at the 2009 Grilled Cheese Invitational.  (Robert Takata / For The Times)

The tomato soup man came equipped with two coolers of tomato soup that he bartered for grilled cheese sandwiches.  (Robert Takata / For The Times)

A sandwich maker at the Kraft tent.  (Robert Takata / For The Times)

A pile of free sandwich triangles in the Kraft tent.  (Robert Takata / For The Times)

A deer head shaped with grilled cheese sandwiches.  (Robert Takata / For The Times)

Competitors frantically try to finish their sandwiches before the final bell.  (Robert Takata / For The Times)

Competitors try to impress the judges: the Doctor of Cheese, the Mayor of Cheese and chef Eric Greenspan of the Foundry.  (Robert Takata / For The Times)

C’est la cheese.  (Robert Takata / For The Times)

Chef Eric Greenspan’s offering (not in competition) featured taleggio and braised short ribs on raisin bread.  (Robert Takata / For The Times)

Winners proudly hoist their trophies at at the 2009 Grilled Cheese Invitational.  (Rob Takata / For The Times)