Taste of the Valley September 9, 2011

Thank you for a wonderful night!

2011-09-15T10:36:00.000-07:00

Even though Hurricane Irene attempted to derail ourpersistent committee, the fifth Taste of the Valley, a benefit for Tri-TownYouth Services, was held on September 9, 2011. The event would not have been possiblewithout the generosity and dedication of our participants who provided amazing,innovative appetizers and sweet, delicious desserts as well as fantasticcoffee! The attendees of the event awarded Best Overall and the covetedTaste of the Valley Fork to chef, Hernan Yumbla of The Ivory Restaurant in Deep River for theirlatin-inspired menu.

The other winners of the 2011 Taste of the Valley awardswere as follows: Best Appetizer – Gabrielle’s, Best Dessert – Apple Rehab Saybrook, Best Presentation- Riverhouse at Goodspeed Station, Best Ethnic Food– La Vita Gustosa, Most Creative – Zen Roasters, Best Vegetarian Appetizer – El & Ela’s Fine Foods, and Best Soup – Saybrook Soup & Sandwich Co..

The event would not be possible without our generoussponsors and contributors including: The Clark Group, The Valley Courier, ReidBrothers, Essex Savings Bank, Tower Labs, Fio Partners, Tom Alexa, Roses forAutism, Essex Lions and many other local businesses. Our silent auction, themed “From the Hands ofOur Community”, consisted of so many unique items including artwork, quilts,jewelry, and experiences. Thank you aswell to our live auction donors including the Old Saybrook Point Inn, ScandinavianPhotography, The Upstairs Kitchen, and Southbound Charters. We also thank all of the local business whodonated gift certificates. And one last thank you to the Shiny Lapel Trio for the great tunes!

Thank you as well to all those joined us at the event. The funds raised will help our organizationto continue to fulfill its mission – to promote the positive growth and developmentof youth and families in Chester, Deep River and Essex.

Tickets on sale now!

2011-08-16T08:45:00.000-07:00

Taste of the Valley 2011 is an evening of delicious food and toe-tapping music to benefit Tri-Town Youth Services. Circle the date - Friday, September 9, 2011 at 6:00 pm - and get your tickets TODAY!

Each year, our community gathers on a late summer evening on the beautiful grounds of the Deep River Historical Society to sample one tasty morsel after another from local restaurants and caterers. The 2011 Restaurants and Caterers are Apple Rehab Old Saybrook, The Brushmill by the Waterfall, El & Ela’s, Gabrielle’s, The Ivory Restaurant, La Vita Gustosa, Riverhouse Catering, Saybrook Soup and Sandwich Co., Zen Roasters, and more. As part of the event, the Taste of the Valley Committee is excited to announce a new theme for the silent auction, entitled “From The Hands of Our Community”. Every donated item or service in the auction will handmade or completed by hand. There will also be live auction items, including a three-day stay at a ski house in Vermont for 8, a weekend romance package including an overnight at the Old Saybrook Point Inn, and a photography sitting with Scandinavian Photography. The music will be provided by the Shiny Lapel Trio.

You will also cast your ballot for the restaurant that takes home the coveted Taste of the Valley FORK! There will also be awards for Best Appetizer, Best Dessert, Best Presentation, and other categories.

Tickets are $35 and can be purchased at Celebrations and Tri-Town Youth Services in Deep River or online at http://www.tasteofthevalley.blogspot.com. Note: This is event is for adults over the age of 21.

TASTE OF THE VALLEY 2011 is generously sponsored by The Clark Group, The Valley Courier, Essex Savings Bank, Tower Labs, Fio Partners, Tom Alexa, and many other local businesses.

For more information or tickets, contact Gail Onofrio at Tri-Town Youth Services at (860) 526-3600 or view our website: http://www.tasteofthevalley.blogspot.com. If you would like to be a sponsor or donate an item for our silent auction, send an email ttystov@gmail.com.

ABOUT - TRI-TOWN YOUTH SERVICES BUREAU, INC. is a nonprofit agency that coordinates, develops and provides services dedicated to promoting the positive growth and development of youth and families in Chester, Deep River and Essex, Connecticut. The Deep River Historical Society is located at 245 Main Street, Deep River, CT.

The Shiny Lapel Trio will be back at Taste of the Valley 2011!

2011-07-11T09:42:00.000-07:00

We would like to announce that the Shiny Lapel Trio will be providing the entertainment for Taste of the Valley 2011! We are honored to have the Shiny Lapel Trio join us!

Come on...you don't want to miss these amazing musicians!

Taste of the Valley - Silent Auction Theme!

2011-05-23T04:50:00.000-07:00

Taste of the Valley 2011, an evening of delicious food and toe-tapping music to benefit Tri-Town Youth Services, will be held Friday, September 9, 2011 at 6:00 pm on the grounds of the Deep River Historical Society. As part of the event, the Taste of the Valley Committee is excited to announce a new theme for the silent auction, entitled “From The Hands of Our Community”. Every item or service in the auction must be handmade or completed by hand by a generous member of our community. The Board is currently soliciting donations and is looking for a wide variety of items including art, jewelry, clothing, furniture, or other items that are made by hand. Services or cooking-related contributions are also welcome. Community members of all ages are encouraged to make submissions. If you are interested in making a donation or would like more information, please email ttystov@gmail.com or contact Kathy Lalikos at (860) 227-8104.

Save the Date: Taste of the Valley September 9, 2011

2011-05-15T10:20:00.000-07:00

The committee is meeting...we are beginning to contact our restaurants and sponsors...which means Taste of the Valley 2011 is getting started! The committee is planning some new ideas -- and we would love to get your input as well. If you have a suggestions, pop us an email at ttystov@gmail.com. Stay tuned!

Thank you for making Taste of the Valley 2010 a great success!

2010-09-20T07:55:00.000-07:00

The fourth annual Taste of the Valley, the signature taste event of the River Valley benefiting Tri-Town Youth Services, was held on September 10, 2010. The event would not be possible without our generous sponsors and contributors including: The Clark Group, The Valley Courier, Whelen Engineering, Reid Brothers, Essex Savings Bank, Angus McDonald/Gary Sharpe, & Associates, FIO Partners, Tom Alexa, Tower Labs, Bogaert Construction, Roses for Autism, Essex Lions and many other local businesses. Thank you, as well, to all of the businesses and individuals that contributed items to our silent auction.

Under the white tent, you could hear: "Did you try the shrimp from the Brushmill? Or the soup from El & Ela's? Or the pork sushi from The Gris? Or the bread pudding from the Riverhouse? Or the tiramisu from La Vita Gustosa? Or the gazpacho from the Ivory? Or the lobster BLT from Cloud Nine? Or the pulled pork from Gabrielle's? Or the wraps from Squiggy's? Or the lobster pesto dish from the Corner Family Restaurant? It's all amazing!" Over 250 attendees enjoyed the innovative appetizers and desserts while listening to the groovy bluesy tunes of Ryan Hartt & the Blue Hearts.

We extend special thanks to the restaurant participants whose generosity, creativity, and passion for food make our event so exciting. The winners of the 2010 Taste of the Valley awards were as follows: Best Chocolate Dessert - Cloud Nine Catering/The Lace Factory, Most Original Menu - The Ivory Restaurant, Best Use of Local Ingredients - Squiggy's Lakeside, Best Barbecue - Gabrielle's, Most Inventive Dessert - Riverhouse at Goodspeed Station, Best Vegetarian Appetizer - El & Ela's Fine Foods, Best Dessert - La Vita Gustosa, Best Appetizer - Corner Family Restaurant, and Best Presentation - The Griswold Inn. Thank you to Fogo and Pizzeria DaVinci for their participation as well. The attendees of the event awarded Best Overall and the coveted Taste of the Valley Fork to Brushmill by the Waterfall for their "dynamite shrimp" and "wild mushroom risotto".
Our committee went above and beyond the call of duty - and we cannot thank them enough for their time and effort. Thank you to all those who bought tickets and joined us at the event. The funds raised at the event will help our organization to continue to fulfill its mission - to promote the positive growth and development of youth and families in Chester, Deep River and Essex.

Twelve restaurants will be at Taste of the Valley 2010!

2010-08-22T20:34:00.000-07:00

In an unprecedented wave of generosity, we are so happy to announce that twelve amazing local restaurants and caterers will be at Taste of the Valley on September 10th. The full list of this year's participants is below!

Brushmill by the Waterfall, Chester, CT
Cloud Nine Catering/The Lace Factory, Deep River, CT
Corner Family Restaurant, East Haddam, CT
El & Ela's Fine Foods, Deep River, CT
Fogo, Old Saybrook, CT
Gabrielle's, Essex, CT
The Griswold Inn, Essex, CT
The Ivory, Deep River, CT
La Vita Gustosa, East Haddam, CT
Pizzeria DaVinci, Deep River, CT
Riverhouse at Goodspeed Station, Haddam, CT
Squiggy's Lakeside, Chester, CT

Have you bought your tickets yet? They are going fast!! Call 860-526-3600 to buy your tickets now!

Who will be helping us rock the Valley? Ryan Hartt & the Blue Hearts!!!

2010-08-04T11:42:00.000-07:00

We are excited to announce that Taste of the Valley 2010 will be rockin' out to the tunes of Ryan Hartt & the Blue Hearts this year!

Blues Review Magazine describes Ryan Hartt & the Blue Hearts as “young East Coast masters of the jumpin’ West Coast sound.” Formed in 2000, the quartet has released two critically- acclaimed albums on their own Far-Tone Records label and has been voted "Best Blues Band in CT" by the readers of the Hartford Advocate in 2005, 2007 and 2008. In January of this year, the Blue Hearts represented the CT Blues Society for the third time at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN. Get your dancing shoes on...because these guys come out swingin'!

Learn more about the band at ryanhartt.com or check them out on YouTube using the links below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8-dI8NwNZpM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bGq8AnYB4xY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yEFwc537h9Y

Come join us under the tent on September 10th - it will be a great time!!!

Support Taste of the Valley 2010

2010-07-01T04:30:00.000-07:00

LEND A HAND - BECOME A VOLUNTEER

Are you interested in helping make Taste of the Valley 2010 a great success? Then, come join us at our next volunteer meeting on Tuesday, July 13tht at 7PM at the Tri-Town Youth Services Offices located at 56 High Street in Deep River. There are many ways to help with this great event! RSVP to ttystov@gmail.com if you will be attending. There will be meetings throughout the summer - so if you can not join us, let us know and we can send you the full schedule!

RESTAURANTS AND CATERERS WANTED!

Do you have a favorite restaurant or caterer in the River Valley? Encourage them to participate in Taste of the Valley 2010! Share our restaurant invitation with them - and share with them your experience with our event! The more, the merrier!

SPONSOR OUR EVENT

Taste of the Valley is a community-event that is generously supported by our event sponsors! If you are interested in sponsoring our event, please view our sponsorship options - and share with other local business who may be interested.

Save-the-Date: Taste of the Valley 2010

2010-06-03T18:10:00.000-07:00

Save The Date
Taste of the Valley
September 10, 2010

We are so pleased to announce that the fourth annual Taste of the Valley will be held on Friday, September 10, 2010. We wold love to for you to join us - or if you would like, come join the fun and join the Taste of the Valley Committee! The first meeting with volunteers will be held on Monday, June 21st at 7PM at Tri-Town Youth Services offices, which are located at 56 High Street in Deep River.

If you would be interested in sponsoring our event or making a donation for our silent auction, drop us a note at ttystov@gmail.com or call 860-526-3600.

Tickets will be on sale soon!!

Amazing local food, fantastic music, dancing under the stars -

what more could you ask for?

Wow! What a night!

2009-09-18T07:42:00.000-07:00

The tent was a rockin' -- did you come knockin'?

Taste of the Valley 2009 was a fantastic success and raised over $14,000 for Tri-Town Youth Services! With over 250 people in attendance, the white tent was filled with happy attendees filling their bellies with brilliant, innovative, and creative appetizers and desserts from local restaurants and caterers. From ceviche to gourmet flatbreads to lobster bisque to to melon sorbet to finger-lickin' ribs and more, no one went hungry! The Shiny Lapel kept the crowd moving and grooving all night long - and some lucky attendees even got to sing with the band!

We extend special thanks and gratitude to the nine restaurant participants in Taste of the Valley 2009 - whose generosity and passion for food make our event possible. This year, participants and judges voted for their favorite restaurants and caterers. Although it was difficult to choose and the results were close, the winners of the 2009 Taste of the Valley awards were as follows:

Best Chocolate Dessert - The Back Porch
Best Ethnic Food - The Ivory Restaurant
Best Use of Local Ingredients - The Lace Factory
Best Soup - Riverhouse at Goodspeed Station
Best Seafood Appetizer - On the Rocks at Foxhopyard
Best Vegetarian Appetizer - Pizzeria DaVinci
Best Dessert - du'Glace Bistro & Patisserie
Best Appetizer and Best Presentation - Gabrielle's

And the coveted Taste of the Valley fork went to.................
Most Creative Dessert and Best Overall - Brushmill by the Waterfall

Congratulations to everyone - the food was amazing!

We would also like to thank all of our sponsors and contributors including: Clark Group, The Valley Courier, Whelen Engineering, Essex Savings Bank, Angus McDonald/Gary Sharpe, & Associates, Reid Brothers Tents, Tower Labs, Comprehensive Wealth Management, Shiny Lapel Trio, Ciel Printing, The Lalikos Family, Maple Self-Storit, Hale Hill Biofuels, Lamburt Corporation Insurance, Trendowski & Allen PC, Essex Lions, Scott's Farm & Greenhouse, Alexa Carlson Catering, Olsen Sanitation, Dunkin Donuts and The Deep River Historical Society.

Every year, our community raises a fork to support the youth of our community and it is a pleasure for all of us on the Taste of the Valley committee to be a part of an event that is not only becoming a showcase for our local chefs, but has a significant impact on Tri-Town Youth Services' ability to provide advocacy, programming, and support to local youth and families. Since 2007, Taste of the Valley has raised $38,000 - we can not thank you enough for supporting our efforts!

See you next year!

One last note...lost & found! A red fleece jacket was lost at the event as was a pair of black prescription sunglasses. A leather and silver bracelet was found. Call 526-3600 if you have any information about these items!

Visit our page on Facebook to see more pictures
from Taste of the Valley 2009 and become a fan!

It's raining....BUT that is not going to stop Taste of the Valley 2009!

2009-09-11T04:36:00.000-07:00

It's dark...
It's dreary...
It's chilly...

BUT that is ALL the more reason to come to Taste of the Valley 2009! Cheer yourself up with amazing food from a set of generous, enthusiastic, and dedicated locals chefs and treat yourself at the silent auction - OVER 100 ITEMS! And what about the music? The Shiny Lapel Trio is one of the BEST local bands in our area! And the tents -- we've got more tent coverage this year than we have ever had before - so we will keep you dry!

If the weather is getting you down, cheer up - and come to the Taste of the Valley tonight! What could be more fun than eating, dancing, and shopping at the silent auction on a rainy Friday night? Tickets are still on sale at Celebrations and will be available all day! Please call Anne at 917-435-0887 if you are interested in knowing if there will be tickets available at the door!

The Ivory Restaurant will be returning to Taste of the Valley 2009!

2009-09-09T22:30:00.000-07:00

Our 2007 Winner of Best Overall, The Ivory Restaurant, will be returning to Taste of the Valley 2009!

The team from the Ivory is putting together a fantastic selection of items for Taste of the Valley 2009. The restaurant is known for its Lobster Bisque and its Chili Relleno -- a poblano chili stuffed with smoked apple wood chicken and mozzarella and baked with salsa roja. They have also have beautiful salads and tasty ribs!

You should head over to the Ivory for their excellent selection of beer, wine and spirits and the finest steaks and burgers, wings and ribs, pizza and pasta, or chicken and seafood. It is all a treat! Or drop in for the big game, to listen to live music, or for a business luncheon, a special event or just a cozy dinner by the fireplace, you're at home at The Ivory Restaurant.

Come to Taste of the Valley 2009!
Your tastebuds are begging you!
Tickets are on sale at Celebrations or call 526-3600.

The Back Porch....will be there!

2009-09-06T12:14:00.000-07:00

We are delighted that The Back Porch of Old Saybrook will be joining us for the first time at Taste of the Valley 2009.

Located down on Ferry Road, The Back Porch Restaurant is perched on the edge of the Connecticut River with amazing views.
The restaurant serves lunch and dinner daily, featuring waterside dining, great food, a full bar, game room, expansive patio, cozy fire pits and incredible sunset views.

If that weren't enough...the food is fantastic - from mussels to shrimp to enormous sandwiches! Below are a few shots of what you will find at the Back Porch!

Grilled Block Island Striped Bass with Braised Fennel, Lemon Butter and Tomato Vinaigrette.

Steamed Mussels in White Wine with Cherry Tomatoes

Come see what they have cooked up for Taste of the Valley - THIS FRIDAY! Tickets are on sale at Celebrations in Deep River or call 526-3600.

Silent Auction Items Galore...oh my!

2009-09-04T08:33:00.001-07:00

And the silent auction items for Taste of the Valley 2009 are pouring in... thank you so much to all of the individuals and businesses that have contributed! Here is a sampling...

Killington Weekend: A three-night stay at a ski house in Killington, VT during the 2009-10 ski season; sleeps 8 adults.
Sing with the Band!: Yes, you can sing a song with the Shiny Lapel Trio at the event! An absolutely priceless experience!
Take a Leif Nilsson home to your house!: Use this 50% off discount to purchase any painting or print at the Spring Street gallery in Chester. Listed price: $200 to $30,000 Donated by: Leif Nilsson
A Piece of Italy: A gorgeous serving set from Italy! Donated by: Ceramica
Get in Shape!: Enjoy this four-month membership to Rachel Ryan's Fitness, a membership gym located at 15 North Main Street in Chester, CT
Everything You Wanted to Know About Digital Photography But Were Afraid to Ask: A one hour, one-on-one session with professional photographer Caryn B. Davis
Good times for Mommy & Little One!: Enjoy one of Tri-Town Youth Services most popular programs Outstanding Ones or Terrific Twos - perfect for your favorite Mommy and toddler!
For the Sports Lover! Enjoy this 11x14 framed photograph of two of sports greats - Tiger Woods and Michael Jordanl!
Treat Yourself To A Night Out! A informal Greek Dinner for 8 at your house or hers, includes Appetizers & Dessert Donated by: Mike & Kathy Lalikos
Not a Chester Resident, but love Cedar Lake?: Enjoy this 2010 Season pass to Cedar Lake for you and your family! Donated by: The Town of Chester
Take Flight!: An aerial tour for three passengers of the Lower Connecticut River Valley! Donated by Chester Charter
Black & Gold: A smashing stylish jacket! Donated by: Hammered Edge
A night at the theater! Two tickets to any Ivoryton Playhouse production
For the Cook: A fantastic basket of kitchen gadgets! Donated by: Weekend Kitchen
Stunning!: A pair of black pearl earrings for your favorite lady….or to treat yourself! Donated by: DePaula Jewelers

This is just a few of the wonderful experiences and items that have been donated -- there is so much more! Come to Taste of the Valley and go shopping for friends, family - or even treat yourself!

Be Sure To Check Out The Lace Factory!

2009-09-03T04:41:00.000-07:00

If you're one of the lucky people with a ticket for Taste of the Valley, you are in for a real treat! The Lace Factory Catering will be under the tent serving up delicious delights created by Andrea Isaacs and her staff.

Andrea didn't start out as a professional cook. She studied art at the Cleveland Institute of Art and taught herself to cook. She was graduated from the University of New Haven Hotel Restaurant program and went on to manage Le Peep Restaurants, The Gathering in Milford and the Bistro in Guilford. In 1995 she started her own business, Cloud Nine Catering in Old Saybrook.

As legend has it, after catering a wedding for some cheese mongers, Andrea developed an obsession for handmade cheese. She went on to successfully complete Culinary Institute of America's Hyde Park Professional Chef level 2 program, obtaining her CCC (Chef de Cuisine certification). She also joined the American Cheese Society and attended cheese making classes and eventually the "Masters Class" at Artisanal in NYC.

In 2006, Andrea sold Cloud Nine and has recently found a new home for her culinary magic--The Lace Factory, at the Deep River Landing. The building itself dates back to the 1800's and is a quaint historical gem. Lace Factory Catering will start in October. (Andrea promises to create a "signature" hors d'oeuvre for every client!) Meanwhile it plays host to a farmer's market on Wednesdays and Saturdays,(on hold for now) and other events, as well, such as Andrea's cheesemaking classes.

To discover more of the The Lace Factory's wonders and delights, please go to the website www.thelacefactory.com.

Gabrielle's from Essex will be at Taste of the Valley 2009!

2009-09-02T10:54:00.000-07:00

Gabrielle’s commitment to fresh, simple and dynamic food is reflected in the partnership that grew between two Essex residents who shared a passion for fine dining and for locally grown and produced ingredients. Owners Mauricio Salgar and Joseph Shea worked together to restore the Victorian building that is now Gabrielle’s, fusing a piece of Connecticut history with a contemporary bistro atmosphere, ultimately providing the best setting to enjoy a meal with international influences and local ingredients.

Chef Jason Groten (Bricco’s, Sigs, Grants and Max on Main) completes the partnership behind Gabrielle’s but retains his own signature as the creator of dishes that result in a sophisticated, light and clean menu. Chef Groten says, “I enjoy creating simple and approachable food,” a statement which articulates his philosophy for a modern dining experience. Gabrielle’s is the emergent taste of the Connecticut River Valley; extraordinarily fresh and flavorful ingredients, a skillfully creative celebration of the local partnerships, and of course, a celebration of food.

Taste of the Valley is just 11 days from today --
have you picked up your tickets yet?

Pizzeria Da Vinci will be joining us!

2009-08-30T04:15:00.000-07:00

You don't even have to taste it.... All you need to do is drive or walk through the center of Deep River and smell the mouthwatering AROMA of Da Vinci's pizza to KNOW that something extraordinarily delicious is being created in that restaurant! From pizzas to sandwiches to creative salads, it's all there!

Da Vinci's secret? Fresh ingredients... the most flavorful cheeses... the finest pizza dough... and... stone. Every one of DaVinci's irresistible pizzas is baked in a special oven with a cooking surface made of STONE! Baking pizza on stone gives it a chewy outer crust and moist, flavorful inner crumb. Yum!

Check out these amazing combinations!

Focaccia Flatbread with rosemary, garlic, asiago cheese, basil, and balsamic glaze.

Pesto Focaccia with spinach, plum tomato, red onion, portabello mushrooms, roasted red pepper, pesto, and provolone. Chicken

Gorgonzola Focaccia with spinach, grilled chicken, onion, gorgonzola cheese, romano cheese, rosemary, basil, and garlic.

And Da Vinci's Tom White is planning some special treats for Taste of the Valley! Don't miss out! And if you are hungry right now, check out their menu, call 526-0884 and put your order in!

Have you picked up your tickets yet? We will only be selling 250 tickets...Call Tri-Town Youth Services at 526-3600 or drop in to Celebrations in Deep River - don't miss this wonderful community event!

The Riverhouse at Goodspeed Station will be at TOV 2009!

2009-08-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

The Riverhouse at Goodspeed Station will return to Taste of the Valley this year to share the magic of an incomparable culinary experience. Riverhouse catering brings the same level of high-quality food and service to outside events that the Riverhouse offers at its state-of-the-art facility in Haddam.

Set on a ridge along the Connecticut River, and overlooking the Goodspeed Opera House, the Riverhouse provides the environment, the menu, the up-scale services, and the grand experience. Here's an insider's look at Riverhouse…three things you may not know…

1. Executive Chef, John Thompson, whose work has been recognized by the American Culinary Federation, Les Amis d'Escoffier Society and the James Beard Foundation, has worked more than 1000 weddings.

2. The Riverhouse doesn't just cater elegant weddings; they also offer catering at backyard BBQs, corporate lobster bakes and summer festivals. Whether the event is elaborate or simple, with the Riverhouse it is always memorable.

3. Riverhouse offers many different settings for events: the Goodspeed Ballroom, the Swingbridge Room for smaller parties, the lobby atrium, the patio, the terrace, in addition to picturesque outdoor space.

Sample some of the Riverhouse's infamous dishes at the Taste of the Valley, or, better yet, set up an appointment today to let the Riverhouse plan your next event and have your own private tasting.

du' Glace Bistro & Patisserie will be at Taste of the Valley 2009!

2009-08-11T12:13:00.000-07:00

SEVEN Things You (Probably) Don't Know About du' Glace Bistro and Patisserie!

The wife-husband team of Jackie and Bill von Anon have made some pretty impressive stops on their way to Main Street in Deep River.

Did you know that...

1. Bill and Jackie met at the Culinary Institute of America, and worked in New York, Florida, and Hawaii before...

2. Landing on Nantucket Island, in the kitchen of the world-renowned restaurant Chanticleer. They practiced their culinary magic in that famous kitchen for 18 years before coming to Connecticut and the Copper Beech Inn.

3. du' Glace Bistro and Patisserie fulfills their dream to create and serve generous portions of delicious French comfort food in a relaxed, unpretentious setting--with a bakery out front so you can pick up some mouthwatering treats to bring home!

4. du' Glace serves Sunday Brunch every Sunday from 10 - 2.

5. Kids are always welcome.

6. Customers' favorite dishes: Coq au Vin, Chicken and Red Wine with Garlic Mashed
Steak du Glace (their signature dish), Marinated Bistro Filet, grilled and served with a huge portion of Pomme Frites, Lobster with Madiera and Risotto. And the ONE dish everyone must try because it's unbelievably delicious: Calves Liver with Bacon Cream Sauce.

7. du' Glace is the PERFECT place for a romantic dinner for two--but they can also seat weddings, rehearsal dinners, showers, and other large parties! PLUS--the Patisserie can make the wedding or specialty cake of your dreams!

There's NO need to wait for Taste of the Valley
to enjoy the French comfort food experience at du' Glace!
They're open every night of the week except Monday!

By the way, have you bought your tickets yet? Just a few more days to purchase your tickets at the 2008 prices - you must purchase them by August 15th - call 860-536-3600 or drop-in to Celebrations in Deep River!

Thank you to our sponsors!

2009-08-02T14:17:00.000-07:00

We would like to thank The Clark Group, Whelen Engineering, Shoreline Publishing, Essex Savings Bank, Angus McDonald, Gary Sharpe, & Associates, Bogaert Construction, Tower Labs, and many other local businesses for their generous sponsorship of Taste of the Valley 2009!

There is still time to become a sponsor of Taste of the Valley! Send an email to ttystov@gmail.com to receive this year's sponsor options!

The Shiny Lapel will be there - but will you?

2009-07-23T07:36:00.000-07:00

We would like to announce that the Shiny Lapel Trio will be providing the entertainment for Taste of the Valley 2009! For the third year in a row, we are honored to have the Shiny Lapel Trio join us!

But will you be there...??? Tickets are on sale now - be sure to get them before August 15th - and take advantage of the Recession Special!

Come on...you don't want to miss these amazing musicians!

Brushmill by the Waterfall at TOV 2009!

2009-07-13T17:17:00.000-07:00

We are very happy to share that Brushmill by the Waterfall (formerly Sage American Grill) will be returning to Taste of the Valley 2009 to defend their Best Overall title and they are looking to take home the fork for another year!

For each establishment that will be participating, we will be giving you an insider's look into the history of the restaurant, background of the chef, and, of course, the food! Enjoy!

3 Things You (Probably) Don't Know About The Newest Restaurant in Chester!

In the Tri-Town area there is NO setting more romantic than Chester's newest restaurant, Brushmill By The Waterfall. The romance begins even before you enter the restaurant, as the charming covered wooden bridge carries you right past the roaring water!

Here are three things we bet you didn't about the restaurant:

1. The waterfall wasn't originally the site of a brush mill. The first mill on the property was a saw mill built in the early 1800s. In 1834 wooden skate blades were made there. It wasn't until 1859 that the mill started turning out wood-handled spiral-bound horsehair brushes, as well as brushes for shoes, suede, bottles, and gun barrels.

2. If it weren't for the invention of the nylon brush, we probably would not have such an elegant and romantic restaurant in our area! In the 1950s, nylon bristle brushes replaced most horsehair bristles and caused the demise of the brush factory. In the 60s, the building was lovingly restored and converted into a restaurant!

3. Pastry chef Jillene Johnson taught herself to create the mouthwatering desserts you can taste any time you want at Brushmill By The Waterfall. Jillene's delicious creations have graced the menu at the Inn at Chester and Saybrook Point Inn.

There's no need to wait until Taste of the Valley to sample Brushmill By The Waterfall's award-winning Prime Rib, or chef Aiden Lizotte's signature dish, savory Mustard Glazed Pork Tenderloin! All the charm and romance of old New England is there for you-now!

Check the TOV blog again soon for kitchen tips from the best chefs in the Tri-Town area! More news coming soon!

Tickets ON SALE NOW!

2009-06-22T18:30:00.000-07:00

Tickets for Taste of the Valley 2009 are ON SALE NOW!

Have you heard? We are offering a RECESSION SPECIAL!

Buy tickets before AUGUST 15th
to lock in the 2008 price!
1 for $30 or 2 for $50
LAST YEAR WE SOLD OUT -
SO GET THEM WHILE THEY LAST!

Tickets are on sale at Tri-Town Youth Services, Celebrations,
or contact Kathy Lalikos at 526-2463.
After August 15th, the ticket prices will increase to
1 for $35 OR 2 for $60 - do not wait!

Amazing local food, fantastic music, dancing under the stars -
what more could you ask for?

Save the Date -- and give us your 2 cents!

2009-03-25T11:24:00.001-07:00

Great food and great music - all for a great cause!

We are happy to announce that the date for Taste of the Valley 2009 has been selected - put it on your calendar now! Friday, September 11, 2009!

This year, to kick off our planning effort, the Taste of the Valley Committee has developed a survey for you - the previous attendees of Taste of the Valley - to provide your feedback.

Please take 5 minutes and click here to give us your thoughts on how we can continue to improve this great event -- stay tuned here for more information and ways to get involved!

Oh What a Night!

2008-09-08T15:46:00.001-07:00

Taste of the Valley 2008 was an amazing success!

Over 250 people joined us for a festive evening of great food, music -- and an exciting silent auction! We were overwhelmed by the generosity of the participating restaurants, our sponsors, those you donated items for the auction and the event, and all of the individuals who came out and supported us by buying tickets and purchasing auction items. THANK YOU!

It is also our pleasure to announce to 2008 winners....

Best Presentation - Sage American Grill
Best Appetizer - The Whistle Stop
Best Dessert - du' Glace Bistro & Patisserie
And taking home the Taste of the Valley commemorative fork for Best Overall....

Sage American Grill

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OUR WINNERS
AND THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS AND CATERERS, including

Dagmar's Desserts
du' Glace Bistro & Patisserie
Gabrielle's
The Ivory
The Riverhouse at Goodspeed Station
Sage American Grill
The Whistle Stop Cafe

THANK YOU AGAIN for all our support --
especially our sponsors and contributors

The Clark Group
Whelen Engineering
Shore Publishing
Angus McDonald/Gary Sharpe & Associates
Bogeart Construction
New Alliance Bank
Wachovia Securities
Hi-Rel
Maple Self-Storage
CIEL Printing
Eastern Rentals
The Shiny Lapel Trio
Dunkin' Donuts in Deep River

Enjoy the pictures and if you took pictures and are interested in sharing them with us, send them to ttysb@aol.com. If you purchased a silent auction item and were not able to pick it up on Friday night, call the office at (860)526-3600 and arrange a time to pick up your item. If you have suggestions for how to improve our event or are interested in joining our committee for 2009, please post a comment here or call (860)526-4445.

We look forward to having you join us next year - for Taste of the Valley 2009.

AMAZING Silent Auction!

2008-09-03T04:19:00.000-07:00

We are SO happy to report that we have over 85 (!!!!!!!!!!) auction items that will be available for bidding on Friday night. Given that we have so many great items, we will be trying something new Friday night -- each silent auction table will close at a different posted time -- to be sure that EVERYONE takes something home!

The full list will be an insert in your program -- but here some highlights from each category!

For Family & Friends: Killington Weekend, Feast Dinner Club, Peek-a-Booquets, A Private Tour of the Chester Firehouse, Dinner at du Village in Chester, $100 gift certificate at Camp Hazen, 3 $15 off gift certificate for school pictures from Joseph's, Microsoft Student Office & Encarta, A greek dinner for 6, a party for 6 at the Clayhouse

For the Home: A 50% off discount at Leif Nilsson's gallery, a pastel piece by Jil Nelson, a discount off a wall mural in your home by Rick Silderberg, a discount off a painting by David Brown, a gorgeous bird house, a plate from Ceramica, a basket from the Gilded Pear, lanscaping services, and two antique boudoir lamps

Jewelry: Pieces from Tracye Mueller, watches from Celebrations, handmade earrings and pin by Lori Lenz, pearl earrings from DePaula Jewelers, and more!

Pamper Yourself (or someone you love!) & Health & Wellness: A one hour in-home massage, a Mary Kay basket, a leather pocketbook from Scotland, a canvas bag from Scencibles, life coaching sessions, gym memberships, a spray-tanning session, and haircuts galore!

Experience the River Valley: Dinner at the River Tavern, a 1/2 hour flight for 3 people from Chester Airport, Essex Steam Train for a family of 4, Bunch for 2 at Water's Edge, Goodspeed Opera Tickets, and restaurant gift certificates from up and down the Valley and Shoreline!

For the Enthusiast: A crystal murano necklace from Angies,
binoculars, lunch & kayaking from the Villager, a sunset cruise of Selden's Creek for 4, a life jacket, cookbooks from Homeworks, a beer basket, a coffee & tea basket, a seafood cooking basket, a basket for your favorite dog -- and more!

AGAIN, we cannot thank our local businesses, artisans, and individuals enough for the overwhelming generousity to Tri-Town Youth Services - and for supporting our event. Please come -- and bid -- and have a great time! See you on Friday!

Two more great donations!

2008-08-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

Feast Gourmet Market is introducing a new Dinner Club for families -- and has generously donated a prepared dinner for a family of four, once a week for eight weeks -- valued at $320!

Angus McDonald, Jr. has donated a two-hour evening tour of Selden's Creek by boat for a group of four -- with wine and cheese. Will be amazing to see the fall foliage!

More to come!

Silent Auction donations are rolling in!

2008-08-20T12:11:00.000-07:00

From Clinton to Chester, local businesses and individuals are generously donating interesting items to our silent auction. From a three-day weekend to a ski-house that sleeps 8 in Vermont to an antique quilt from Riverwind Antiques to a discount on a wall mural in your home to a homemade Greek dinner for 6 to a gourmet lunch and kayaking for 2 donated by The Villager in Chester -- we are excited! And hope you are too! We will posting a full list of auction items shortly!

Another restaurant signs on to TOV 2008!

2008-07-26T06:11:00.001-07:00

Sage American Grill - Chester will be joining us for Taste of the Valley 2008 - we are so excited to welcome them to our event! Come join us for what will be a fantastic evening!

Another major sponsor signs on to Taste of the Valley!

2008-07-24T12:05:00.000-07:00

The Taste of the Valley Committee is pleased to announce that Shore Publishing Newspapers has generously signed on as a major event sponsor of Taste of the Valley 2008! We appreciate their support -- and are excited to have them join us at the event! Look for our ads in the August 14th - September 4th editions of The Valley Courier and The Harbor News! THANK YOU!

Another great addition to Taste of the Valley!

2008-07-22T07:20:00.001-07:00

The Riverhouse at Goodspeed Station, Inc. and Riverhouse Catering, a Banquet Facility and Off-site Catering company located in Haddam, CT, will be joining us for Taste of the Valley 2008! We are so excited to welcome this new addition to our fantastic event!

Another restaurant signs on for Taste of the Valley!

2008-07-16T11:36:00.000-07:00

The Whistle Stop Cafe of Deep River, CT will be joining us again this year -- treating us to a delectable appetizer and dessert...that is a secret for the moment! Come find out what amazing creation Hedy will treat you to! Tickets on sale now! Get them before we sell out!

Tickets on Sale NOW!

2008-07-07T18:26:00.000-07:00

Tickets to Taste of the Valley 2008 are - ON SALE NOW! You can purchase tickets at the Tri-Town Youth Services Office, Celebrations in Deep River, or the Essex Savings Bank. You can also purchase them for any of the Tri-Town Youth Services Board Members. Tickets are $30 each, or 2 for $50.

Call Tri-Town Youth Services at 526-3600, if you have any questions! SEE YOU THERE! And stay tuned for amazing silent auction items....

Thank you to our major sponsors!

2008-07-07T18:11:00.000-07:00

We would like to thank The Clark Group and Whelen Engineering
for their generous sponsorship of Taste of the Valley 2008!

More Restaurants & Sponsors!

2008-06-06T11:09:00.000-07:00

We are so excited that Dagmar's Desserts has decided to treat us once again to delectable desserts and treats at Taste of the Valley 2008! Stay tuned for more restaurant news!

We would also like to thank our corporate sponsors for their generousity and support. Without firms like Bogaert Construction and Angus McDonald, Gary Sharpe, & Associates - our event could not become a reality. THANK YOU!

Big News - The Shiny Lapel Trio will be there!

2008-05-05T15:12:00.000-07:00

We would like to announce that the Shiny Lapel Trio will be providing the entertainment for Taste of the Valley 2008! Last year, we were wow-ed by their groovin' tunes - and are so happy that will be joining us again for this special event.

Another restaurant says "YES" for Taste of the Valley 2008!

2008-04-21T16:07:00.000-07:00

We are excited to announce that Gabrielle's will be joining us for Taste of the Valley 2008. Last year, they wowed us with their selection of Mediterranean tapas; we are looking forward to their culinary creations. Stay tuned for more exciting Taste of the Valley news - including corporate sponsors and local businesses that have generously donated items to our silent auction.

First Two Restaurants Agree to Participate in 2008!

2008-04-17T16:34:00.000-07:00

The Taste of the Valley Committee is pleased to announce that Bistro Du Glace, 2007 winner of Best Dessert and Best Presentation, and The Ivory, 2007 Best Overall winner, of Deep River, CT have agreed to participate in Taste of the Valley 2008. We could not be more excited to have these culinary masters join us again!

Save The Date - September 5, 2008

2008-03-31T09:46:00.001-07:00

Taste of the Valley 2008 Planning has begun!

2008-03-31T08:50:00.000-07:00

We are happy to announce that the planning for Taste of the Valley 2008 has begun! If you are interested in being on this year's committee, contact the TTYS office at (820) 536-3600.
Stay tuned to this website for updates, sponsors, restaurants and news!