Though it has been quite the treat for us downtown kids to be courted and catered to by the food gliteratti, it is also lovely to re-visit neighborhoods one may not set out to visit very often. One of the most exciting things about living in New York City is the opportunity for re-discovery, in and outside of your comfort zones.
Lucky for us, the 8th Annual New Taste of the Upper West Side, a three-day event glorifying this treasured neighborhood’s strengths and innovation in the culinary arts, is back and better than ever – and for a great cause! Spearheaded by the non-profit organization Columbus Avenue Business Improvement District, all proceeds of this event go back to the local community for neighborhood improvement projects such as the Wellness in Schools program, Greenhouse Classroom, City meals-on-wheels, and the Sustainable Streetscape project.
We had the privilege of attending the second evening of this star studded series, and are pleased to report it was an elegant, well-choreographed affair. Adam Richman gave away 50 free copies of his autographed cookbook, Straight up Tasty, and MC’d the evening seamlessly. The Comfort Classics theme of night number two was present at every booth, with each restaurant showcasing its most delicious interpretation of home-style cooking.
Some of our favorites included Sarabeth’s shrimp and grits, Shake Shack’s cheeseburger topped with bacon and caramelized onions, Virgil’s Real BBQ’s Memphis pork ribs, as well as Five Napkin Burger’s Korean BBQ burger and Artie’s Delicatessen pastrami finger sandwiches were just a few examples of some of the outstanding fare featured at New Taste. To top it all off, Christina Tosi’s famous truffles of Momofuku Milk Bar were the ultimate way to end your food tour on the highest note possible.
A five-piece band, aerialist performers, vodka cocktails sponsored by Tito’s, and a plethora of winemakers helped bring this food expo to the absolute next level, and allowed guests to contribute to the Upper West Side’s blossoming community. It was a first class affair from start to finish, and we are proud to have taken part in such a fun, rewarding event.
Twisted Talk: What’s your favorite food spot on the UWS? Have you tried any of the cuisine at the restaurants mentioned above? Discuss below!
