The Wilton Chamber of Commerce will present the 8th annual “A Taste of Wilton” on Monday, April 20, at the Wilton Historical Society (5:30-8:30 p.m.). This highly anticipated yearly event, sponsored by Fairfield County Bank, attracts food and beverage purveyors from throughout the area, proving several hundred Wilton foodies and wine buffs an evening of epicurean entertainment, all while supporting the Wilton Chamber and business community.
This year the event is a little different, not only in that it’s taking place in April rather than in June and at a new location, but that it will be held inside.
“It has always rained, and the taste is such a fun event. When it rains it puts a damper on it, and the restaurants put so much work into it. I’m so excited with the changes,” said Janeen Leppert, director of the Wilton Chamber and the organizer of the event. She adds that it’s a great synergy to feature another Wilton institution and bring great awareness to the Historical Society.
One of the additional benefits of the event is that it showcases both restaurants and other food professionals based in Wilton. “It’s wine shops, it’s bakeries, caterers, specialty food manufacturers. We have a little bit of everything,” Leppert added.
“A Taste of Wilton” is open to the public, and tickets are on sale now at Village Market, Wilton Historical Society, Fairfield County Bank, the Wilton Chamber of Commerce office and online at www.wiltonchamber.com, at $30 per person if purchased in advance or $35 at the door. Historical Society members can purchase tickets for $25 apiece.
Not only is the Taste of Wilton a great event for attendees, but it’s also an opportunity for Wilton businesses.
“It’s the ideal venue for restaurants and caterers to showcase their products to discerning customers who want to sample delectable cuisine and make connections for future business,” Chamber president Patrick Russo said.
As sponsor, Carol, Johnson, Vice President of Fairfield County Bank, said they are proud to support the effort as longtime supporters of the town. “‘A Taste of Wilton’ underscores the town’s growth as a destination for fine food and our Bank’s involvement in connecting local businesses to the community.”
Leppert said there’s a wide variety of exhibitors who are taking part, and the lineup of food purveyors showcasing their specialties this year includes Black Cat Grille, Café Ruche, Georgetown Package Store, Heavenly Bites, Little Pub, Marly’s Bar & Bistro, The Painted Cookie, Sweet Pierre’s, Pinocchio Pizza, Peachwave Frozen Yogurt, Village Market, Portofino Restaurant, Bianco Rosso Wine Bar & Restaurant, Greenhook Ginsmiths and Stop & Shop. More exhibitors are signing on each week leading up to the Taste, so that number will grow.
All local restaurants and caterers, as well as those offering specialty food products, such as sauces, spices, jams and condiments are invited to participate by reserving a booth for the event. Space is limited with registrations taken on a first-come, first-served basis. Exhibitors who are interested in participating in “A Taste of Wilton” should contact Chamber Executive Director Janeen Leppert at 203.762.0567 or via e-mail for more information or to reserve a spot.