Lobster Roll Rumble | New York

We can't keep our traps shut any longer: It's almost time for Tasting Table's third annual Lobster Roll Rumble.

Twenty competitors from around the country will be bringing their best lobster rolls to New York City on June 7, 2012, for an epic claw-to-claw crustacean throwdown, the likes of which you've never seen.

The action takes place at the Metropolitan Pavilion, and tickets are on sale now ($150 for general admission, $250 for VIP; click here to purchase). The Rumble will benefit Share Our Strength, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending child hunger in America.

Over the course of the night you'll have the opportunity to sample rolls from a veritable who's who of homard heroes. We'll up the ante by adding Tequila Don Julio cocktails, frosty bottles of Stella Artois, sparkling San Pellegrino and endless pints of Häagen-Dazs ice cream.

An office betting pool might not be out of place. Is the smart money on the two-time defending champion, New York City's own Luke's Lobster? Or will the title go to Red Hook Lobster Pound, Island Creek Oyster Bar, Ditch Plains, JCT. Kitchen & Bar, B&G Oysters, The Mermaid Inn, Sam's Chowder House, Freddy's Lobster + Clams, Lure Fishbar, Smack Shack, Mary's Fish Camp (2011 Judges' Award winner), The John Dory Oyster Bar, Waterbar Restaurant, The Clam Shack, BLT Fish Shack, Lobster Joint, The Hungry Cat, Thames Street Oyster House or Littleneck?

Only time will tell. Better ready your bib.