Long Island Food Critic

The 21st Annual Taste of the Harvest Celebration took place at the lovely Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury. This event was hosted by Island Harvest whose motto is "Fighting Hunger, Touching Lives". With a myriad of restaurants, bakeries, breweries and wineries from all over Long Island in attendance this event was a smash hit!

This year's main focus was Island Harvest's special program called Operation: HOPE where a mobile food pantry is supplied to military families, active duty personnel and veterans.

One of the highlights of the night was the perennial presentation of the coveted Long Island Food Critic Best of Show Award in both the savory and dessert categories. The winner in the savory category was Chef James Junk from Hotel Indigo, whose succulent duck confit served on an edible spoon was certainly a standout offering in a crowded field of culinary delights. In the ever popular dessert category Chef Frank from Red Velvet Lounge delighted both the judges as well as the attendees with a variety of creations that had every one going back for seconds.

As the evening drew to a close, the auction winners were announced and guests strolled towards coffee and dessert. After 22 years of service, Island Harvest continues to champion the fight against hunger raising more than $300,000 in funds.