There were some old favorites and some surprises among the winners of 14th annual Taste of Downtown on Saturday night.
More than 5,000 people flooded the streets of downtown Carson City, searching for samples from many of the Capital City's stores and eateries. The event is a fundraiser for Advocates to End Domestic Violence.
"It started off as a cute little idea with five restaurants and has become one of our biggest fund-raisers," said Lisa Lee, AEDV director.
Thirty-eight restaurants and stores took part, including several new additions that were looking to make a splash at their first Taste of Downtown.
"D'Vine was participating for the first time and they tried really hard," Lee said. "They won Best Taste and almost won atmosphere, so they had a good first experience."
It was the samples from such a variety of restaurants that brought Ron and Rene Radil, of Carson City, downtown on Saturday night.
"This is just our second stop so far. I can tell it's going to be a very fulfilling night," Mrs. Radil said.
Megan Heckart, of Reno, said this is her fourth year coming to the event.
"It's absolutely amazing, you can walk around and taste all kinds of food and find out what everyone has to offer," Heckart said.
The event featured 11 live bands and was staffed by 154 volunteers. The total amount raised by the event won't be available until later this week. Other winners were Tahoe Dance Band for Best Band, Alyssa's Desserts and Bakery for Best Discovery, Molly's Gourmet Catering for Best Atmosphere, Purple Avocado for Best Shop and B'Sghetti's for Best Overall.
• Contact reporter Jarid Shipley at jshipley@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1217.
Winners
Winners of the 13th annual Taste of Downtown:
Best Overall: B'Sghetti's
Best Band: Tahoe Dance Band
Best Discovery: Alyssa's Desserts and Bakery
Best Taste: D'Vine Wine
Best Atmosphere: Molly's Gourmet Catering
Best Shop: The Purple Avocado