Food Lovers Can Savor Creative Cuisine at Taste of Key West April 16

KEY WEST, Florida Keys — For decades Key West has been renowned for the creativity of its artists, and culinary artists are no exception. From 6-9 p.m. Monday, April 16, foodies can savor artistic cuisine from the island city’s top chefs during a palate-pleasing extravaganza called Taste of Key West.

Now in its 23rd year, the feast for the senses features “tastes” from more than 50 local restaurants. Fine wines from 100 vineyards and wineries are to be provided by Republic National Distributing Co. More than 25 beers are to be on tap for event attendees as well.

The one-night open-air event benefits the Florida Keys’ AIDS Help and takes place at Mallory Square, the waterfront home of Key West’s world-renowned nightly Sunset Celebration.

Attendees can stroll the waterfront sampling dishes ranging from European and vegetarian to tropical and Caribbean-inspired — many featuring fresh-off-the-boat Keys seafood and other indigenous ingredients.

All participating cuisine providers donate their time, staffs’ talent and products to benefit AIDS Help.

General admission to Taste of Key West is free. Attendees purchase food and wine tickets for $1 apiece, and commemorative wine glasses for $6, then spend their tickets on beverages and delicacies. Each sample typically costs between three and six tickets.

Advance admission tickets can be purchased for $25 per person and include $20 in tasting tickets and a commemorative Taste of Key West wine glass. Advance tickets are available at keystix.ticketforce.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=1053.

Gates open at 6 p.m. Biking or walking to the event is suggested, but limited parking may be available at Mallory Square.

Event information: ahmonroe.org/ or 305-296-6196

Key West visitor information: fla-keys.com/keywest or 1-800-LAST-KEY

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