For 14 years Thornton Park residents have gathered to enjoy a taste of their neighborhood, located in the heart of Downtown Orlando, Thornton Park is unique in that it makes a large town feel tiny. And the liveliness and flavor of Thornton Park was on display last week as we attended the annual Taste of Thornton Park. For $30 locals enjoyed unlimited mixed drinks, small plates and beer and wine. Proceeds will benefit various community events as well as their beloved fountain at the intersection of Washington & Hyer. A foodie “hidden gem event” of sorts, A Taste of Thornton Park was an all out feast brimming with endless libations. Here’s what we enjoyed and recommend tasting the next time you’re in the neighborhood.
Dexter’s: My personal favorite of the evening with their warm shrimp and grits, pork belly sliders with cilantro, all washed down with a berry guava mimosa.
Black Bean Deli: An impressive presentation between their pork “pate” and deconstructed tamale. Props to this place for bringing their culinary creativity and tasty bites to the neighborhood.
Soco Thornton Park: You can’t go wrong with tacos. Especially tacos with rock shrimp. And BTW have you seen our Soco review? Click here for why you need to try their brunch.
Graffiti Junktion: Buffalo…..TOTS! If you know me, you know I’m buffalo obsessed and while buffalo tater tots may not be for everyone, I’m personally a huge fan. We’ll be back for more of this greasy appetizer. PS: Further proof of my buffalo obsession here.
Publix: Shout out to everyone’s favorite grocery store for bringing an ample wine selection. They even brought wines you’d find at a fine dining establishment. So thanks Publix, for bringing your A-game with ample vino.
310 Lakeside: The overall winners of taste for the evening, 310 brought out their culinary expertise for this event. Duck confit with a side of cucumber covered with caviar. #winning
Raw: Earning points for making kale drinkable….with vodka. Yep, their “Drunk” Green Goddess beverage was filled with pineapple, apple, kale and oh yes, vodka. A perfectly acceptable way to drink your produce if you ask me.
We’ll be back soon Thornton Park, we’re already looking forward to our next culinary adventure in this beloved neighborhood.
