Taste of Crenshaw treats Luverne palates

Published 6:23 pm Wednesday, June 26, 2024

On June 25, people of Crenshaw County had the opportunity to taste test the new foods, drinks and deserts of some of their favorite local restaurants at the Taste of Crenshaw event.

The annual event was organized by the Crenshaw County Chamber of Commerce to highlight local businesses, and invite attendees to taste foods from restaurants they may not have tried before. 

“These restaurants, caterers, bakers and food trucks have donated their time, food and drinks tonight in order to promote their expertise to the public,” said Chamber President Kathy Smyth. “They have agreed to participate tonight for [the attendees] enjoyment in hopes that [attendees] will eat with them, order from them or hire them for [their] next event.” 

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Additionally the event allows businesses without a storefront, such as caterers and food trucks, to share their products with potential customers. 

There were 21 different vendors in the First United Methodist Church of Luverne DEI Center for the event, including Bill Henry’s Take Out, which served burgers and wings, and the Crenshaw County Extension Office, which provided samples of strawberry salsa and different healthy recipes for attendees to take back home. 

“I believe they said that there were around 51 different places to eat in Crenshaw County, with 21 here tonight,” said William Petrey, an attendee of the Taste of Crenshaw. “I think I made it to all 21 tables and I didn’t find anything that wasn’t delicious.” 

This Tuesday marked the first Taste of Crenshaw event since COVID-19. Now, after a near four-year absence, both attendees and businesses were welcomed back into the DEI Center for the event. 

After registering and purchasing a $10 ticket, attendees were able to select the food they wanted from the vendors for free, and were allowed to come back for seconds. Chamber members were allowed to register with the $10 fee waived. 

“We have several people here from the bank, so we paid $10 each and that’s the best bargain in town,” Petrey said. “When you can go to 21 tables and fill up for $10, you can’t beat that, especially with the way inflation is today.” 

Looking towards the future, the Chamber board is preparing for more events scheduled throughout the year, such as the Citizen of the Year Banquet, their annual golf tournament and the Friendliest City Festival.

Follow the Crenshaw County Chamber of Commerce on social media for upcoming events.