Coinciding in 2023 with the Conch Republic Days, the 28th 'Taste of Key West' will feature Key West and Lower Keys chefs specializing in seafood, Caribbean and Cuban flavors, European delicacies, Asian fusion cuisine, vegetarian dishes and more.
On Monday, April 24, they're all found in the same place, as the islands' top culinary professionals gather from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Truman Waterfront Park, overlooking Key West Harbor at the end of Southard Street.
Chefs from leading local restaurants, catering companies, food trucks and other emporiums donate their time and talent to create small-plate offerings. Culinary fans can indulge their appetites by sampling everything from savory appetizers and casual tidbits to gourmet main dish "bites" and decadent desserts, all to benefit the Mission of Health + Housing for A.H. Monroe County, Inc.
In addition, you can select your choice of wines from around the world provided by Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC). A large beer selection is to be available as well.
Taste of Key West gates open at 6:00 p.m. Biking or walking to the event is encouraged.
General admission to 'Taste of Key West' is free, Attendees can purchase a variety of food and beverage packages in advance at keystix.com, at a discount, as follows:
- Date Night Package for $75 includes 2 glasses, 2 plates, and 60 tickets (Save $5)
- Foodie Package for $45 includes 1 plate and 45 tickets (Save $5)
- Sipper Package for $45 includes 1 glass and 45 tickets (Save $5)
- Light Bite Package for $25 includes 1 plate and 20 tickets
- Little Sipper Package for $25 includes 1 glass and 20 tickets
- The "I Don't Know!" Option: $1 per ticket, $5 per glass, $5 plate
New for 2023 is the 'Taste of Key West' VIP Pass. For $125 per person, VIP attendees receive a lanyard entitling them to a lighted VIP tent with tables and chairs for six guests; an educated sommelier to discuss the finest wines only available in this exclusive area; unlimited food and wine samples; and wine or pint glass and plate. Only 150 seats of this special feature will be sold.
Additional food tickets can be purchased at the event as well.
As well as celebrating the talents of Keys chefs, 'Taste of Key West' also helps support SMART Ride, the mid-November bike ride from Miami to Key West that annually benefits participating Florida Agencies who specialize in healthcare and assistance for people living with HIV/AIDS, including A.H. of Monroe County, Inc.