Taste of the Town - The Woodlands

Taste of the Town is set for 4-9 p.m. Jan. 29 at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center.

For the 29th year, The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting the culinary event that draws in thousands of food lovers looking to sample the fare of numerous vendors from throughout South Montgomery County.

Last year’s Taste of the Town attracted a crowd of about 6,500 and boasted booths from 141 businesses.

For the cost of admission, attendees can sample appetizers, entrées, desserts, pastries and beverages from a variety of local restaurants, caterers, bakeries, delis and beverage companies.

“Taste of the Town is a highly anticipated event every year that brings our community together,” said Barry Millenson, general sales manager of Buckalew Chevrolet, LP, one of the presenting underwriters, in a press release .

Even after nearly 30 years, the event is ever-changing.

“We have a growing community,” said Ashley Byers, director of special events for the Chamber. “Every year we have new restaurants. … Our ultimate goal is to spotlight the restaurants.”

One new restaurant that will join the lineup this year is Ruggles Green, the first green-certified restaurant in The Woodlands, which opened Monday on Research Forest Drive.

“Being part of Taste of the Town will actually show The Woodlands what Ruggles Green is about,” said Joseph Garcia, assistant manager. “I think the Taste of the Town will be a good way for us to advertise and show people who we are and what we’re made of.”

New to the event this year is a raffle for prizes, including a private wine tasting; two tickets, VIP Club passes and parking pass to a Live Nation concert at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion; a flat-screen TV; and a men’s Citizen Eco-Drive watch. Raffle tickets cost $10 each or three for $20.

Attendees will also sample Texas-grown and manufactured seasonings, salsa and other food, courtesy of the Texas Department of Agriculture.

“Our award-winning restaurants play a key role in creating the destination experience that is unique to The Woodlands,” said Nick Wolda, president of The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau, in a press release. “The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau, which promotes the area as a weekend getaway and meetings destination, is proud to participate in Taste of the Town to celebrate the area’s diverse culinary offerings, which continue to attract visitors from across the region.”

The funds raised from Taste of the Town benefit various Chamber programs that promote the growth of South Montgomery County, its residents and businesses.

General admission tickets cost $25 in advance or $30 at the door. Ticket packages are also available.

Source: The Courier of Montgomery County