A Taste of Seaside: A Magical Culinary Even

Honored Guest John Mariani Talks Food & Wine Wednesday, October 17, 2012

VIE had the pleasure to dine with old friends and colleagues at “A Taste of Seaside” at Bud & Alley’s Restaurant with an enchanting reception in the Herb Garden overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, complete with a front-row seat to a magical fall sunset. This progressive dining event showcased food from Raw & Juicy, Amavida Coffee & Tea, Great Southern Cafe, The Shrimp Shack, Barfefoot BBQ, Heavenly Short Cakes, and host restaurant Bud & Alley’s. Renowned food, wine, and travel connoisseur John Mariani was the guest of honor, and, with his recent book, How Italian Food Conquered the World, on display while guests were waiting to speak with John, the reception was an elegant yet casual prelude to our four-course dinner. Mariani is also a columnist for Esquire magazine and contributing writer to Esquire’s blog – Eat Like A Man. He will be featured in VIE’s JAN/FEB 2013 “Men’s Issue.”

Mingling at this chic soiree under the stars was a hip and interesting crowd from NYC, Miami, and the Florida Panhandle with town founders, Robert and Daryl Davis, recently arriving from San Francisco. The benefactor of the evening was The Seaside Neighborhood School Garden.

David DeGregorio, owner of Central Idea Agency, designed the the very cool menu, so you know how wonderful the event was!