Taste of Dine Originals was last night! It’s your best chance to catch many of Columbus’ best restaurants all in one place. The new location at the Grange Audubon Center offered a little more room, so the crowds didn’t feel as crowded. I’ve never been to the Center before, but I was impressed. Seems like a great area, and I’m excited to see how the Whittier Peninsula continues to grow. Plus, the views of downtown are unbeatable.
I sampled so many things that I forget the exact names and ingredients, but I don’t remember having anything bad the entire night (not like that’s a surprise). As usual, Basi Italia used one of my favorite displays, with mini polenta cakes topped with a sweet salsa.
Chef John Dornback at work.
This year also included two of our local distilleries. Here’s Watershed serving up Gin & Juice. In another corner, I tried a sidecar with Middle West Spirits Honey Vanilla Bean vodka. Both refreshing and delicious.
Pork belly from Due Amici.
Mini Cuban pork sandwiches from Barcelona.
Owner Thom Coffman of The Clarmont…
…serving up macaroni and cheese balls!
Right next to the gang from Deepwood.
Quick break for a sip of Summer Teeth from Columbus Brewing Company.
Even more restaurants lined up in the main hallway of the building.
It’s always fun to see Chefs Kevin and Patrick from Skillet at work.
Towers of delicious smoked duck crostinis (above) and a lavender pound cake with chocolate ganache (below) from Chef Anthony with The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls.
Amazing display, as usual, from Pistacia Vera.
And of course, you have to finish with Lara’s maple bacon cupcakes from Surly Girl Saloon.
A wonderful and delicious evening all around. It’s always amazing to see such a diverse mix of fare at this event. Thanks to Dine Originals for inviting me out. Looking forward to 2012 already!
