“The Taste”, hosted at the Fort Collins Hilton last week was about more than fancy food samples; it was about bringing together caring members of the community to raise money for the Food Bank of Larimer County and Neighbor to Neighbor.
Over 30 local, non-chain restaurants from Fort Collins, Wellington, Windsor and Loveland participated and prepared food for an expected crowd of over 700 potential tasters. Some offered special menu items just for the event prepared in the on-site kitchen, others brought along the fan favorites that put them on the map.
Several local breweries and wineries handed out sizable samples, offering a wide variety of flavors for folks who wanted to explore something new or stick with a favorite. It was the perfect place to nibble and check out tons of restaurants, all in one convenient place.
Copper Spoon Awards for “The Taste”
My favorite part of the evening at “The Taste” (other than sampling), was being a Copper Spoons judge. I was able to tour the tables to focus on more than the food itself, and really take in the presentation and crafting of the food. As I sailed from table to table with my five column checklist, I noticed how I was drawn to certain tables with their dramatic, ethnic flair, and slightly turned off by tables that looked boring, institutionalized and lacked personality. I also appreciated the creative energy and innovation that goes into really good food, and the unique vision each chef had put together to truly represent their restaurant.
Restaurants including Island Grill, Rasta Pasta, Jay’s Bistro, Rio Grande, Nordy’s Bar-B-Que Grill, Chimney Park Restaurant and Bar and Tortilla Marissa’s all had really wonderful booth displays, and their food was equally unique and colorful.
My Favorites From “The Taste”
- Fort Collins Brewery with a Wheat Wine Ale was an interesting blend unlike anything else I have ever tried!
- Duck Taquito Chimney Park Restaurant and Bar
- Beauregard’s Grill and Tavern Andouille Macaroni and Cheese and Cherry Wood Smoked Teriyaki Flank Steak
- Okle Maluna Kalua Pork
- Jay’s Bistro Tuna Wasabi Cone, my hands down favorite for presentation, uniqueness, overall flavor and taste
The silent auction was also a big draw, with several local businesses donating goods and services ranging from take-home items, to travel to jewelry and more. I loved the fact that Zero Hero was called in to make sure “The Taste” was a zero waste event, and slowly building awareness that large events have a responsibility to be as green as possible.
Raising money for the homeless and hungry and doing it sustainably? What more can you ask? My advice…GO next year. Support your community, stuff your belly full of delectable goodies and meet great people who are excited to help support their community through the artistic expression of great, amazing food.