Flavor: Taste of Main Street in Encinitas

When a foodie event is on its 22nd consecutive year, you know they are bringing the people what they want! In this case, the 22nd annual Taste of Main Street delivers the goods via an International Food Festival happening on Thursday, September 8 from 6 to 9pm in Encinitas. Over 30 enticing restaurants will present their best creations for your sampling delight.

Music will fill the seaside street as participants venture and try new bites from new and classic restaurants. Over five different locations will have live musical performances, and musicians are scheduled to include Randy Fontaine and the Swingers, Allison Adams Tucker and Allegato World Jazz, Tropical Breeze, The Jack Stiteler Jazztet, and Russell Castiglione. Participating Encinitas restaurants include Kealani’s, Q’ero, E Street Café, East Village Asian Diner, Honey’s Bistro, Beachside Bar & Grill, St. Germains, Union Kitchen & Tap, Java Hut, Vigilucci’s, Roxy Restaurant, Encinitas Café, Ogata, Lotus Market, St. Tropez, Chuao Chocolatier, Swami’s Café, and many others.

After visitors have had a chance to sample the delicious offerings, they will be invited to partake in the People’s Choice Award by voting for their favorite cuisine samples. The voting will take place at the DEMA office and will be announced at a later time. Overwhelmed by the options? Let us help narrow down your list of must-try’s.

Union Kitchen and Tap

New American Cuisine is what’s on the menu at this new hot spot, from seasonal salads and prime steaks to stuffed sandwiches and chops. The welcoming atmosphere at this restaurant, along with the local and organic ingredients, keeps locals coming back for seconds. The craft beers and signature cocktails also add to the popularity.

Lumberyard Tavern & Grill

Lumberyard Tavern & Grill is another new Encinitas hot spot that takes beachside bar grub to the next level, without losing its cool. A top spot for game time, this TV-packed sports bar also delivers some great eats, including the Border Burger with chipotle aioli, pepper jack cheese, jalapenos, lettuce, tomato and onion; and the Blackened Mahi Mahi topped with honey lemon butter, served with rice and veggies. (pictured)

Lotus Café and Juice Bar

This fresh eatery and juice bar is loved for its predominately vegetarian menu and unique juice options. However, they are known to also serve excellent fish and poultry dishes, always intriguing and always delicious. Vegan eaters will be happy to know that a wide variety of vegan options are available as well.

The Taste of Main Street event takes place Thursday, September 8 from 6 – 9pm. Tickets are available for $25 at the DEMA office or online. For more information, visit encinitas101.com.

Insider Tip: Save some room for San Diego Restaurant Week, returning September 18 – 23, 2011.

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