Hello, Downtown!
There’s a good chance you’ll make a friend at the Taste of East Village. I usually do.
Finding a new pal isn’t guaranteed. But these city dine-around programs are quite collegial. East Village residents should be on the look out for neighbors and curious visitors. And vice-versa.
Need an ice breaker suggestion? Easy: “Hi! Have you been to [insert name of restaurant] yet?” Use your “yes, and…” improv skills to take it from there.
Meanwhile, everybody will be looking to be introduced to the food-and-beverage samples being offered at East Village eateries. The two-day midweek event is Oct. 14 and 15 from 4 to 8 p.m. both evenings.
Each day offers a different list of participating restaurants. Ticketholders check in and pick up a Taste Passport. Don’t lose this! Restaurants check off your passport after giving you a sample.
On Oct. 14, the “South Route” check in area is LUCE Loft. Participating restaurants (as of press time) are: Asa Bakery & Cafe, Bub’s @ The Ballpark, Café Allesie, Cafe de L’Opera, Doggos Gus, LandShark Bar & Grill at Margaritaville, Le Charcuterie Bar, The Church by Lost Abbey, Nékter, and Nick the Greek.
Check in for the Oct. 15 “North Route” is Lola 55. Options include: Bay City Brewing Co, Beshock Ramen & Sake Bar, Bird Rock Coffee Roasters, East Village Tavern + Bowl, El Comal at Quartyard, The Knotty Barrel, Lola 55 and The Invigatorium.
Tickets for each day are $48.75 (including service fee). For more information, go to: Taste of East Village.
On the off chance you don’t meet a new friend out on the course, don’t despair. You’ll map out a few new spots to come back for a full meal – yet another chance to befriend other diners, waitstaff or your new favorite bartender.
Ron Donoho
Downtown News newsletter host
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