May 25, 2016 By Christian Murray
Local residents turned out in big numbers to participate in this year’s Taste of Sunnyside that was held in a giant tent under the elevated 7 train tracks on Queens Boulevard Tuesday night.
Los Verdes’ Colombian Slider was a very popular item (Source: Katie Lobel)
The event was sold out last week and several people who wanted to buy tickets last night were told they were unable to partake.
The attendees were all there to sample the food and beverages offered by nearly 30 local restaurants. The samples offered were global in scope with Italian, Irish, French, Colombian, Mexican, Thai, Tibetan and American food on offer.
Many enjoyed the sounds of local jazz from the Sunnyside Social Club and the Afro-Latineers.
There was also beer provided by three local breweries (Queens Brewery, Finback Brewery and Big Alice Brewing) as well as by Manhattan Beer Distributors and Maggie Mae’s. There was also wine offered by Claret Wine Bar and Lowery Wines & Liquors.
Manhattan Beer Distributors and Maggie Mae’s
Throughout the evening—which went from 5:30 p.m. through 8:30 p.m.—a continuous wave of people flowed through the tent entrance, especially after 6:30 pm. Over the course of the night, more than 600 people attended.
The location proved to be a hit once again, the third year it has been held under the elevated No. 7 line.
“I think the venue is great,” said Rachel Thieme, executive director of Sunnyside Shines Business Improvement District. “It is so unique, in an unexpected place, but in the heart of the community.”
The aim of the event, which was put on by Sunnyside Shines for the sixth time, is to introduce attendees to restaurants that they may not ordinarily go to. The idea is if they enjoy their sample, they will dine at the restaurant at a later date.
The event is also a way for Sunnyside Shines to showcase the area as a food destination.
“This event has real community spirit,” Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer said. “It’s about bringing everyone together through good food as well as supporting small businesses.”
