I understand that Taste of Charlotte can garner a bad rap...it's hot, it's crowded and there are lots of corporate sponsors like the Pepsi Max tent and loads of cutlery demos. However, I have to take a bit of a stand and educate those about the number of local restaurants that are starting to participate in The Taste. Make note that 21 out of 33 restaurants represented at the Taste this year are LOCAL to CHARLOTTE. You can go to the Taste's website, check out the restaurant page and count away if you don't believe me. \n\nYeah, the fest is pretty pricey and you do have to spend $15-$20 to actually get a fair taste. Do I think the prices could be a bit more reasonable for said tastes? Yes. Do I think if the cost to enter this festival was a bit lower that more local restaurants would get involved? Yes. Do I blame the festival for large crowds and hot weather? No. That's irresponsible. \n\nA few of my favorites at the Taste this year were the following: Tuxedo cupcake AND the sweet potato chips and hummus at Polka Dot Bake Shop, brisket slider at Outlaw BBQ, pretty much all three dishes from Woodlands, pork sliders from Harvest Moon Grille and a mini Italian beef from Matt's Chicago Dog. Hey - I got to judge the food...I was able to taste quite a bit. Don't judge me :)\n\nCould this fest be incredibly cool, local and whatnot? Yes, it could be. Start raising those funds for permits and staff and it could happen.
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