Today was the last day of the Taste of Burlington. I am a little sorry that I waited until the very last day to write about it. But I am not sorry, not at all. You see, I have been wanting to try the Taste of Burlington for a couple of years now, just never got around to it. I am glad that I managed to sneak a luncheon in this year. I somehow convinced my new cubicle buddy, Hayley to try it out with me. She’s relatively new to the downtown area and I thought, why not! I asked her to pick a restaurant and decide on the menu before we actually make it out there. She had a meeting to attend to shortly so we can’t be late. Hayley and I decided for Downtown Bistro as it is a quaint little restaurant. Located right downtown on Elizabeth Street, I think it’s a perfect location for rendezvous, a place to wind down and catch up. Hayley and I have worked together in another capacity so it was nice to do some catching up. When we arrived, there were already a few people eager to order their lunch as we were. There was only one server to cater you and I think the restaurant can seat up to 30 at a time at the most.
Downtown Bistro
But, have you heard of it? The Taste of Burlington? Most Burlingtonion wouldn’t have. I was one of them. What is the Taste of Burlington you say? In 2008, Tourism Burlington, Aldershot BIA and Burlington Downtown organized the event with the participation of the local restaurants to promote dining experiences in Burlington. Much similar to that of the neighbouring Oakville with Fabulous February and Bronte with Brontelicious. For as low as $15, you get a 3-set course of scrumptious lunch or $35 for prix-fixe dinner options. The course typically includes an appetizer, entrée, and dessert.
There are 23 restaurants participating in this years’ Taste of Burlington. Typically, you get a taste of what each restaurant would offer in the launch event held early in February. A precursor food tasting event, to say the least. If you are a foodie in this area, this is an event not to be missed. The launch features sampling of what the restaurants would typically offer during the Taste of Burlington. Just be prepared to come hungry.
I settled for Moroccan Butternut Squash & Goat Cheese Soup with coconut ginger cream & crushed pistachio sprinkle as an appetizer while Hayley picked for a much conservative Beer Can Chicken & Spaetzle Soup of slow roasted chicken, house made spatzle, chopped aromatic vegetables simmered with fine fresh herbs. May I say although the soup was hearty, the burst of pistachio and goat cheese was an explosion of surprise in my mouth. I wasn’t prepared but was pleased nonetheless.
For entree, I picked the popular Beef Bourguignon Crepe and can you guess what Hayley’s option was? Yes, the Caprese Grilled Cheese sandwich. The entree was spectacular and I slightly regretted picking something a little too heavy for an appetizer. I was getting full and don’t think I can manage! I looked at my watch and realized the time and insists that Hayley leaves for her meeting and take her dessert to go. I felt bad that she had to rush but I’d rather that she’s not late.
Our visit to the restaurant was rather hurried and short and I was to blame for that. I fret about not picking another day. I do know one thing for sure, that I am looking forward to next years’ Taste of Burlington and oh, there is a bonus for the experience, a chance to win a 5-day, 4-night stay at Myrtle Beach. Crossing my fingers…
One Good Day 