A little rain this weekend didn’t stop foodies from enjoying one of the best events that New York City has to offer in June.
The Ninth Annual New Taste of the Upper West Side took place this weekend. Hundreds of attendees enjoyed delicious food and drinks while dancing the night away all for a great cause.
Chef Jacques Torres and Foodie Fan
The incredible lineup of restaurants, notable chefs, and celebrity hosts all was formed by the Columbus Avenue Business Improvement District (“BID”), a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit. The group donates all net proceeds to the local community for neighborhood improvement and beautification projects such as the Columbus Avenue BID’s Sustainable Streetscape project, Theodore Roosevelt Park, Wellness in the Schools nutritional program, Greenhouse Classroom, Citymeals-on-Wheels and other beneficiaries.
“I’m having the time of my life,” said attendee George Rodriquez. “It’s raining, but who cares. The food is amazing and the music is awesome.”
Delicious Delights
For two nights ticket holders were able to sample dishes from local restaurants and sip in delightful spirits, beers and wines. On Friday night, Summer in the City: Surf & Turf, Presented by Glenwood, took place with 45 restaurants are re-imagining beloved warm-weather standards with unique and innovative twists all why the Silver Arrow Band played.
On Saturday, Best of the West took place to grand applause. The enchanting Joe Battaglia and his 18- piece New York Big Band picked up the beats in between DJ sets. The beautiful Sara Gore of NBC’s New York Live and Open House greeted the crowd.
“Please, please have a great time,” stated the energetic host as the festivities launched.
More than 45 fabulous Upper West Side restaurants are preparing unique and delectable dishes. Exciting neighborhood newcomers Crave Fishbar, Olma Caviar Boutique & Lounge, Orwasher’s Bakery and Amorino Gelato joined revered restaurants returning for yet another great year, including RedFarm, Boulud Sud, Dovetail, Jacques Torres and Rosa Mexicano.
Swinging High on Bubbly
Each selection offer was splendid and scrumptious.
“It’s all about the best ingredients treated simply,” said new to town Chef Tim Kensett from Caffe Storico about his crowd-favorite dish Insalata di Polpo with braised octopus, potato, celery and olive all served with lemon and olive oil. “I’ve only been here four weeks and I simply having a wonderful time.”
Some other favorites included Jean-Georges Maine Lobster Summer Roll, Café Luxembourg’s escargots braised in parsley cream, Calle Ocho’s cerviche with marinated crabmeat, Tavern on the Green’s smoked salmon mousse and tequila cured Scottish salmon with pickled cucumber salad, Shake Shack custards, Magnolia Bakeries chocolate banana pudding, and Jacques Torres Chocolate.
There was simply no better way to spend the weekend.
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