A Taste of Santa Cruz benefit features 30 restaurants, wineries and breweries

Crab wonton at Aquarius, a participant in 2012’s A Taste of Santa Cruz

The 8th annual “A Taste of Santa Cruz,” at the Cocoanut Grove on Thursday, Oct. 25, features 30 participating restaurants, wineries, and breweries. The popular event runs from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. and benefits first-time home buyers; tickets are $40 in advance or $50 at the door. Buy tickets online.

Attendees sample food and drinks from 30 restaurants, food vendors, breweries and wineries. Proceeds from the event go toward the Santa Cruz Association of REALTORS Housing Foundation grant program that provides closing costs for first time, low-income home-buyers in Santa Cruz County.

Participating food providers include Casablanca Inn & Bistro, El Palomar, Fresh Prep Kitchens, Aquarius, Chaminade, Johnny’s Harborside, Le Cigare Volant, Hollins House, Paradise Beach Grille, Cowboy Diner, Michael’s on Main, Solaire, Suda, and Zameen Mediterranean Cuisine. Wineries and breweries include Trout Gulch Vineyards, Beauregard Vineyards, Seabright Brewery, Santa Cruz Ale Works, and Uncommon Brewers.

Other highlights at the event: a silent auction with over 100 items, a raffle with an iPad prize, live music, and an appearance by the Derby Girls. The silent auction starts at 5:30 p.m. and closes at 7:30 p.m. Prizes include restaurant gift certificates plus vacation lodging in Lake Tahoe, Puerto Vallarta, and New Orleans.

Because several hundred people attend this event each year, purchasing your tickets in advance is recommended.

Event location: Cocoanut Grove Grand Ballroom, 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz 95060

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