10th Annual Taste of Smithtown Celebrates A Decade Of Helping Those In Need

10^th Annual Taste of Smithtown Celebrates a Decade of Helping Those in Need

 By Nancy Vallarella

MosaicOn Tuesday, November 17^th, the 10^th annual Taste of Smithtown will take place at Mercedes-Benz of Smithtown in Saint James. Traditionally, this event is known for Smithtown’s culinary businesses putting their best food forward. Over the past decade, it has grown to support Smithtown residents in need of assistance in addition to children world-wide in need of heart surgery.

RelishThe Taste of Smithtown is a great platform to network with the Smithtown community.  Smithtown Rotary members associated with Senior Resources of Long Island originated the fundraiser. The event was built on helping children world-wide through the Gift of Life.  Over the first several years, it became apparent that assistance was also needed at home.

Crazy CrepeIt is not uncommon to drive down Brooksite Drive and see residents waiting for the food pantry to open.   Pat Westlake, Director of the Smithtown Emergency Food Pantry, assists thousands of families within Smithtown. The pantry is solely funded through contributions from Smithtown residents and businesses. Proceeds from the Taste of Smithtown help to fill the void of much needed food staples.

For the past eight years, the Smithtown Children’s Foundation has been aiding families within Smithtown that have encountered financial and emotion stress. Although they run various fundraisers throughout the year, the Taste of Smithtown is an opportunity to engage a range of Smithtown residents like no other.  From local business owners to high school students, SCF rallies to raise awareness and funds to continue to aid those within our community who are encountering difficult times. 

This year’s participating businesses reached out to the event’s organizers with unprecedented enthusiasm.  Within days of posting a save the date notice, a record number of culinary business confirmed participation. Villa Sorrento and Crazy Crepe Café were among the first participants to register along with loyal sponsor, Elegant Eating. 

MosaicThe food is sure to amaze based on the beautifully presented, mouth-watering and interactive tasting from last year’s event.  Over thirty culinary and wine businesses will be present including new comers: Whisper Vineyards, Azueljos Mexican Restaurant, and Up in Smoke BBQ. 

Mosaic of Saint James along with MV Limousines have donated a Night Out on the Town.  - Dinner/Cooking Demonstration and Wine Pairing for 2 with Limousine Transportation will be won by a Taste of Smithtown ticket holder. To qualify: purchase your ticket before the November 2 cutoff date! 

All paid attendees will be taking home a goodie bag chocked full of food themed samples and promotional offerings in addition to the chance to win raffle prizes at the event. Please refer to Taste of Smithtown’s Facebook page for updates and ticket purchasing info. On-line ticket purchasing: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/taste-of-smithtown-tickets-18871147109