STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Clang, clang goes the dinner bell — and the trolley chime — next week as the South Shore Business Improvement District (BID) brings back its premium restaurant crawl for the eighth year. The Annual Taste of the Towns will take place on Sunday, Aug. 17, from 1 to 5 p.m., spanning the neighborhoods of Annadale, Eltingville and Great Kills.
Restaurant supporters and those with adventurous palates across Staten Island are prime their appetites for this event, which will showcase 21 local restaurants and eateries, including neighborhood favorites like Annadale Bakery, Sofia’s Taqueria, Joyce’s Tavern, and Mimmo’s Restaurant.
“This is one of the island’s best events,” said Gary Fleming, president of the South Shore BID and broker/owner of Emerald Elite Realty. “It’s not only a great day to enjoy delicious food — it’s a unique way to highlight all of the businesses in our District and encourage folks from across the borough to explore what the South Shore has to offer.”
Have you ever tried a panelle sandwich? It’s a specialty at Mona Lisa in Annadale and is on the menu for free samples at the Trolley event. A panelle, by the way, is a fried chick pea fritter served on a soft bun.Pamela SilvestriTickets and tastings
Tickets are $30 and include tastings at all participating locations, a reusable South Shore BID shopping bag and full access to complimentary trolley transportation between the three neighborhoods.
Three trolleys will shuttle participants throughout the day, stopping at central locations in each town.
The event has sold out for seven consecutive years, and early ticket purchase is strongly recommended. Participants can check in at any of the following Flagstar Bank locations — 820 Annadale Road, Annadale; 4523 Amboy Road, Eltingville; 3879 Amboy Road, Great Kills.
Upon arrival, attendees will receive a map of participating venues and a coupon booklet for tastings.
As in previous years, guests will vote for their favorite establishment, with the winner receiving the coveted “Best of the BID Award.” Last year’s winner was Sofia’s Taqueria although the massive spreads at Annadale Terrace and Richmond Republic received enormous praise from participants.
Here are this year’s participants and what they’re known for:
Rainbow cookies at Alfonso’s in Eltingville at Taste of the Towns by trolley by the South Shore BID Pamela SilvestriPamela SilvestriAnnadalePizza Parlor — Pizza and Italian fareDistrict Bar NYC — Pub grubMona Lisa Pizzeria — Sophisticated pizzasAnnadale Terrace — American food with breakfast, lunch, dinner, and cocktailsAnnadale Bakery — Cannoli, cakes, and pastriesEltingvilleAlfonso’s Bakery — Breads and Italian pastriesSofia’s Taqueria — Mexican brunch, dinner, and drinksRichmond Republic — Pub grub and Continental fareJoyce’s Tavern — Irish fare, sandwiches, and burgersHoliday Beverage — Craft beer and beverage storeCampania Coal Fired Pizza — Charcoal pizza, panini, and Italian fareCountry Donuts and More — Breakfast, fresh doughnuts, and sandwichesGreat KillsNonna’s Pizzeria — Panini and pizzaMimmo’s Restaurant — Pizza and casual Italian fareJD’s Tavern — Pub grubVillage Maria Pizza — Assorted pizza and Italian foodAnthony’s Paninoteca — Acclaimed sandwich shopTalk of the Town — Cold beer and Larry BurkertTop Tomato — Produce store with a vibrant deliArirang Hibachi Steakhouse — Sushi and hibachiVintage Tea — High tea and delicate fare to match
The BID partners with local officials including Council Member Frank Morano to support the event and promote South Shore businesses. For tickets and additional information, visit SouthShoreBID.org.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
Dining and Cooking