By Mark Scott
Buffalo, NY – The 19th annual Taste of Buffalo takes place this weekend along the pedestrian mall downtown. More than 50 local restaurants will participate in this year's food-fest.
Of the 50-plus restaurants, 15 are taking part for the first time. Two restaurants -- Romanello's Roseland and Prima Pizza -- have been at the Taste of Buffalo since the first one in 1984. Chairman Jim Fink says there is a lengthy waiting list of restaurants waiting to get in. He says the decision is made by a special review committee.
"One of the things that plays a big part in our decision is we don't allow duplication," Fink explained. "For instance, only one place can sell Chicken Wings."
Hours of the Taste of Buffalo are 11 till 9 tomorrow and 11 till 7 Sunday. A handful of out-of-town travel writers will be at the Taste. In fact, Fink says this year's event is dedicated to ex-Buffalonians who are visiting here for the July Fourth weekend.
"This year's theme is 'Bringing Buffalo Back Home,'" Fink said. "What we're trying to do is reach out to ex-Buffalonians who moved away."
The NFTA says the frequency of Metro Rail service will be increased for the Taste of Buffalo and will include evening service on Sunday. But Metro Rail will operate only between South Campus and the Theater District station. Shuttle bus service will be available for passengers traveling past the festival.