Taste of the South End

I was delighted to have the opportunity to attend Boston's Taste of the South End this year, an event that benefits the Aids Action Committee. Over 35 local restaurants and vendors participated in the event bringing samples of their delicious food, wine or other libations.

the red signs each depict a different station

Held at the Cyclorama at the Boston Center for the Arts this year's TOSE was jam-packed with yummy things to discover. Being a food lover myself I was in heaven walking around sampling cuisines from many of Boston's top restaurants.

This fried chicken sandwich from Flash's Cocktails was one of the best I've ever had, the fact that I was super hungry and it was the first thing I ate probably helped too. The cocktail they were serving up was equally delish.

From Stephi's on Tremont; chilled seared duck breast with Okinawan sweet potato "vichyssoise" and cherry compote on a sour dough crouton. There was so much flavor packed into one small bite that this was one of my top picks of the evening.

The Upper Crust Pizzaria brought a selection of Italian favorites including their famous gourmet pizza. While I skipped the pizza I did try one of Santina's Spinach Squares.

Decidedly my favorite of the night, a selection of Indian specialties from Mela. The samosas, paneer, chicken tikka masala, and basmati rice were all tasty and cooked to perfection.

In addition to the amazing food and drink there were live demonstrations from some of the South End's top chefs. Pictured above, the executive chef from Stephi's on Tremont.

Some of my favorites not pictured include a habanero watermelon margarita from Masa, mini cupcakes from the Boston Center for Adult Education, tasty sangria from the Upper Crust, braised berkshire pork belly from Union Bar & Grill and an Asian braised soft taco from Myers & Chang.

One of my last samplings of the evening, an "adult" ice cream soda featuring raspberry Belgium Lambic poured over vanilla ice cream from Picco. Yum.

a view of the hustle & bustle

The Taste of the South End was an amazing experience that introduced me to some amazing restaurants while at the same time benefitting a wonderful charity. I now have a very long list of restaurants I'll be going back to!