Today several vendors set up shop under crystal clear blue skies in Daley Plaza, serving hungry crowds during a lunch hour preview event for this year’s Taste of Chicago.
This afternoon’s event featured restaurants that will be apart of the main festival in July. From Italian Sausage served by Mariano’s to Frog Legs from Lawrence’s Fisheries there was a little bit of everything for those looking for a tasty lunch.
“It’s really nice to get out of the office and enjoy some food outside on such a beautiful day,” said Jeffrey Martin, taking in the event during a break from his work day. “I got a slice of pizza from Connie’s but I might try a frog leg from that place over there.”
The Taste, celebrating its 34th year, serves up a variety of food at booths in Grant Park from restaurants all over the city. It is Chicago’s version of a world showcase for the vast variety of restaurants the city has to offer.
This is just a, “a sample of what’s to come July 9th — 13th,” Mary Slowik, Taste of Chicago Manager, said.
She said the event today is to get the word out about the Taste of Chicago. Attendance in 2013 was approximately 1.5 million people and organizers hope to beat that number this year.
“I normally don’t go to the Taste but with some of the new vendors and after eating the food today I think I might have to go,” said Kathy Cunningham, 46, from Lincoln Park.
This year the Taste will run from July 9th — 13th in Grant Park at the intersections of Jackson and Columbus and will feature 64 restaurants.
In addition to the food there will be musical performances by Janelle Monáe and AWOLNATION.
New this year the Taste will feature a “Made in Chicago Market” where attendees can by assorted apparel and accessories by local artists.