Not the Same Old Taste of Hartford

It used to be one of New England's largest outdoor festivals, but this year's "A Taste Of Hartford" is retreating indoors.

Five years ago, people flocked to downtown Hartford and Constitution Plaza to sample foods from hundreds of vendors, featuring cuisine from several different cultures, all in one place. However, sponsorship and the economy have made it hard on the festival in recent years, it even moved to East Hartford at one point.

This year's festival mimics the idea of Connecticut Restaurant Week, with restaurants throughout Hartford offering a pre-fixe menu for $20.09. It’s sad to see such a vibrant festival go the way of the dinosaur but it’s a sign of the times. And while a glorified restaurant week is no Taste of Hartford, its still a good way for local restaurants to attract people and business.

There are still a few outdoor options. The farmers market held at the Old State House, 800 Main St., Hartford on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. will feature produce, baked goods, herbs, juices, iced teas and lemonades. The goods come from local farms, including Beckett Farms, Woodland Farms and Little Acres Farm in Glastonbury;

There's also interesting options outside of just food.

A wine-tasting will be held Monday at Harry's Bishop's Corner, 732 North Main St., West Hartford, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. The wine tasting will feature wines from Italy, France, Chile, California and Australia. Wines will be paired with different signature pizzas.

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