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Each year at ‘Taste of Madison’ [1], local restaurants and food carts set up stalls by the Capitol Square to celebrate the city’s diverse and thriving food scene. Food is judged and awards are given out. This past weekend marked the thirty-second year of the event.
Despite sweltering temperatures, people packed the streets and picnicked under the shade upon the Capitol lawns. Ethnic cuisines and global flavors mingled easily with Wisconsin mainstays like burgers, brats and cheese curds. One could easily find a variety of Southern comfort foods, Indian, South American and French dishes, to name a few. There was something for everyone, gourmands purists alike - cheese curds wrapped in bacon-wrapped or served with gourmet dipping sauces or simply beer battered and fried. Desserts ranged from the unexpected - frozen cheesecakes, churro sundaes and fried PB&J sandwiches - to always delectable ice creams, cakes and cupcakes. A medley of the best tastes of Madison.
All photos by Aparna Vidyasagar
[2]AK Bombers had a slider assembly station at Taste of Madison. They boasted of being one of Travel Channel's Food Wars champions.
[3]High temperatures meant cold beer was in high demand at Taste of Madison.
[4]Caracas Empanadas won awards for 'Best Ethnic Dish' (shredded beef and cheese empanada) and Best Vegetarian Dish (sweet plantain and roasted garlic empanada).
[5]Diners enjoy a picnic in the shade
[6]Deep fried Mac & Cheese from the Madison food cart, 'Fried and Fabulous'.
