It was a tough job, but someone had to do it: nibble the tasty bites and quaff the delicious sips at the 2nd Annual Taste of Chester County to benefit Safe Harbor of Chester County.
This foodie fundraiser helps Safe Harbor’s good works, which include providing food, shelter, friendship, counseling and recovery opportunities to homeless men and women in Chester County.
The sold-out crowd was clearly pleased with the line-up of vendors. I brought my carnivore partner-in-crime, Judy, who thoughtfully munched through those items while I tried the non-meat offerings. We both won as there were apps, entrees, desserts, beer, wine and coffee.
While each philanthropic establishment put out its best and, in many cases, its signature dish, here’s what got the nod from our tasting duo:
Amani’s BYOB: It’s butternut squash rav time of the year, but these were no ordinary raviolis. The crushed chipotle walnuts on top added an ever-so-spicy nutty goodness to this savory-sweet fall entrée.
Arianna’s Gourmet Café: The fragrant and flavorful EVOO made all the difference on what could have been “just” fresh mozzarella and roasted red pepper on a yummy bread round.
Aneu Bistro: Chicken quesadilla was melty, warm goodness. Not too spicy, but spicy enough, according to Judy.
Doc Magrogan’s: Oysters shucked on site: does it get any fresher? The touch of spicy horseradish kissed by a drizzle of lemon made for the perfect seafood shot.
The Capital Grille: Rare with a slight crust, this freshly sliced prime rib was hit with 12-grain balsamic glaze. Judy said it was a nice, mildly sweet contrast to the tender beef.
Firecreek Restaurant: I’m pretty sure Judy’s eyes rolled back into her head as she sampled the falling-off-the-bone baby back ribs. She said the sweet was perfectly balanced with the BBQ.
Mas Mexicali Cantina: True to its heritage, Mas served up pork and chicken tostadas with all the fixins. Two thumbs up (one for each variety).
Side Bar & Restaurant: The fall spice sauce was the, well, secret sauce on this hearty sweet potato pierogi. It had a stick-to-your ribs quality, and was a mighty sweet and savory combo.
Cakes and Candies by Maryellen: Dessert! Finally! Festive fall-themed cake pops stole the show, especially chocolate over dark chocolate. The crunchy candy garnish added another layer of flavor to this decadent confection.
Full Spirited Flavors: You take cake. You soak it in liquor. That’s winning! The owners of Prosperity Cakes surely will prosper with these amazing treats. Hats off to the Amaretto, which was authentic in taste and rendered the cake moist enough to drool over. Which we did. More than once.
Boxcar Brewing Co.: All hail the Brown Ale, a refreshing and crisp libation that stood on its own in addition to washing down all those bites. Between the two of us we caught hints of walnut, caramel and chocolate.
Origlio Beverage: These kind folks donated Coors Light and Yuengling to appeal to those looking for something lighter.
Tally Ho Coffee: A nice selection of caf and decaf was provided to cap off a delicious evening.
Finally, this year marked a very special occasion as Safe Harbor presented The Safe Harbor Andrew Dinniman Humanitarian Award posthumously to Rosemary Murphy. She was honored for her many years of dedication to the non-profit organization.
Photographs credited to Nina Lea Photography. View more scenes from 2012’s Taste of Chester County HERE.
