“Taste of the Valley” showcases local restaurants

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Four BYU students enjoy the festivies at 'Taste of Utah'  (Photo by Steven Squire)
Four BYU students enjoy the festivities at ‘Taste of Utah.’ (Photo by Steven Squire)

The Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce presented “Taste of the Valley” in downtown Provo on Saturday, where hundreds of people were able to sample unique foods from over 20 different vendors.

“This is my third year coming, and it’s definitely my favorite event in Provo,” said Melodie Dearden, a BYU graduate. “I love tasting the different foods and look forward to coming every year.”

Restaurants such as Station 22 Cafe, Old Towne Grill, Guru’s and The Choc’late Mousse set up booths to hand out food to attendees.

Val Hale, president and CEO of the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce, said, “The point is to highlight places that maybe don’t get the recognition they deserve. It’s speed dating for restaurants — you get to sample many different places and find the ones you want to visit in the future.”

The event filled up quickly, with many vendors reaching wide audiences. “We gave out around 1,500 samples in just under two hours,” said Oscar Camarillo, general manager of Guru’s. “It’s great to let people get to know our recipes and what we’re doing.”

Many BYU students came to support the event.

“I think Provo’s done a lot to boost business and keep things lively,” said Ryan King, a BYU student studying commercial music. “Sweeto Burrito is my favorite thing ever, and I’m so excited they’re here receiving recognition.”

The event was supported by corporations like Sysco, Sam’s Club and Pepsi. Local bands came to perform live music, and inflatable games were also provided.

“This is our twenty-first year doing this,” Hale said. “It’s always an event people enjoy and look forward to.”

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