Food festival serves it up

Taste of Atlanta attracted thousands to sample some of Atlanta's best food this past weekend at Atlantic Station. Starting Oct. 13, this special two-day event hosted several of the most popular and acclaimed restaurants in the area, giving them a chance to show off their food to the public. Stands were set up on the sidewalks of Atlantic Station, with chefs and waiters preparing signature dishes for people roaming the street.

Customers purchased entrance tickets and food coupons for the event that could be spent at various stands at their discretion. Some of the smaller samples, like milkshakes and popcorn, cost just one ticket. Other smaller dishes, like mini Kobe burgers and barbeque ribs, cost three tickets. The diversity of foods could easily satiate any visitor's appetite.

In addition, patrons were invited to attend several demonstrations from more prominent chefs as well as a VIP wine tasting event. Shows included drink mixing lessons and a live demonstration on how to cook more health-consciously. The chefs were not limited to ones based in Atlanta; there were famous chefs from across the nation. The popular wine tasting event had a constant line that stretched past several stands. Everything from romatic Gewürztraminers to robust South African Pinot Noirs were offered for sampling.

Street performers were scattered throughout the crowd, giving the event the look and feel of a festival. While passing by the ticket tent, one could see break dancers entertaining onlookers. Radio stations also made their presence felt, providing many opportunities for people to win tickets to concerts and to score some air time with them.

While all the stands attracted quite a crowd, some had larger gatherings. Copeland's Cheesecake Bistro saw many line up to get a taste of its famous cheesecake. Roy's Hawaiian Fusion Restaurant provided a unique take on barbeque ribs. The West Egg Café and its Coca-Cola cupcakes gave people another different take on a traditional desert. Six Feet Under served up the grotesque-sounding Rat's Toe, which turned out to be a quite delicious baked jalapeno stuffed with shrimp and wrapped with bacon.

The predominantly older crowd feasted on the food during the two days of the festival and enjoyed having a taste of what they normally would be unable to try. While food was clearly the inspiration for the event, all types of entertainment and activity were present to keep people full and constantly satisfied throughout the weekend.