Local Flavors Shine at Taste of Carlsbad Village
Jess Levy
Carlsbad Chamber
Organized and hosted by the Carlsbad Village Association, the Taste of Carlsbad Village brings together local eateries, breweries, wineries, and artisan food makers in a festive celebration of community and cuisine. Christine Davis, Executive Director of the Carlsbad Village Association, shared her enthusiasm for the event, stating, “We are very proud of this event. It is a true celebration of our vibrant culinary scene downtown. It’s an opportunity for locals and visitors alike to experience the rich diversity of flavors that Carlsbad has to offer, all in one evening.” While an event like this raises sustainability concerns, Christine reassures, “We are commited to reducing single use plastics and minimizing the impact of this event on the environment.
From the start, we have provided all restaurants and beverage providers compostable serve ware and cups, and we now provide reusable stainless-steel cups and sporks, in lieu of compostables, for an even more environmentally-friendly event.” Several esteemed members of the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce are among the featured participants, adding their unique flavors to the mix. Señor Grubby’s, known for its innovative twist on Award Winning Authentic Mexican Street Food, is one such member. Señor Grubby’s Owner and Carlsbad Chamber Board Member, Justin Jachura expressed his excitement, saying, “Being part of the Taste of Carlsbad Village allows us to connect with our community in a meaningful way. It’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase our latest creations and get immediate feedback from our customers.”
Looking back on the first few years of this event, Christine shares a highlight that comes to mind about Bluewater Grill, a Carlsbad Village Association and Carlsbad Chamber member. “Bluewater Grill participated in Taste of Carlsbad Village days before they officially opened. Amidst the busyness of opening a restaurant, their management and staff managed to create a beautiful display and personally served fresh ceviche off their newly built patio. They offered every ticketed diner a voucher to return the following week with a discount. They had a line out the door on opening night and said that Taste of Carlsbad Village made it possible. We provided them with a platform to reach the public in a thoughtful and engaging way to showcase their amazing food.” Kathy Steffen, Director of Fun, Carlsbad Chamber mentions, “Bluewater Grill has been a Carlsbad Chamber member for almost 7 years. They are truly a generous contributor to many of our events. Anyone who has attended our annual volunteer recognition event raves about their clam chowder.”
Pure Project, a renowned brewery, is also looking forward to the event. Fellow San Diegan and Co-founder Jesse Pine, reflects on the nostalgia of starting Pure Project. “Now, even though the brewery was moving back to San Diego, we decided to keep a lot of the elements that made Costa Rica and the initial brewery concept unique. Things such as using pure, unique, and local ingredients whenever possible, taking care of the environment, and telling a story of the ingredients and process along with the beer itself. Although we were no longer in the jungle, we wanted to bring the Pura Vida spirit back to San Diego and that is how we came to settle on the name, Pure Project for the new brewery.” Pure Project is just one example of the over 16 beverages sampled during the event that celebrate the universal pride of heart-centered elements and local ingredients.
In addition to downtown restaurants and local beverage providers, artisan food businesses in Carlsbad are also involved in this unique event. The Carlsbad Cookie Company will be there again this year, offering their beloved gourmet shortbread cookies. Founder Hollie Chamberlain noted, “We’re thrilled to be part of this event. It’s always rewarding to see people’s faces light up when they taste our cookies. The sense of community at Taste of Carlsbad Village is incredible.” Other notable Chamber members participating include Vigilucci’s, Via Vai Cucina Italiana, Strawberry Shack, and Lola’s Seven Up Market & Deli. Each brings its distinct culinary flair, promising an evening of diverse and delightful tastes. “Cooking is all about people. Food is maybe the only universal thing that really has the power to bring everyone together. No matter what culture, everywhere around the world, people eat together”—Guy Fieri. The Taste of Carlsbad is more than food; it’s a testament to the strong community bonds and thriving culture in Carlsbad.
A spoonful of fun awaits! Tickets go on sale right around Labor Day weekend and each ticket comes with a reusable cup and spork! Be sure to check carlsbad-village.com/ events/taste-of-carlsbad-village for the official date tickets go on sale because they sell out fast.