There is Adele, Bono, Cher, and now there is the Taste. This event was known for ten years as the Taste of Inverness, and now in its 11th year organizers simply call it the Taste. The name change reflects the new feel of this signature event.

First, The Taste is now a qualifier for the international World Food Championship™ event, and one chef at The Taste will receive a golden ticket to compete this fall in Alabama for the chance to win the $100,000 grand prize. Second, The Taste event is now the launching pad for the Citrus County Beer Experience, which will bring top Florida breweries under one tent. Adults 21 and up, may opt for the $25 ticket and receive unlimited samples in the beer garden. Attendees of all ages may purchase general admission for $5 to enjoy the art exhibits and live music, and purchase items from top regional food trucks and restaurants for $6 or less.

The event now includes eateries from beyond the City limits, top Florida craft beers, and bloggers with culinary backgrounds that span Food Network appearances, Disney blogging and World Food Championship winnings. A portion of the proceeds to the Citrus County Education Foundation.

The Taste

Saturday, April 8, 2017 starts at 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Liberty Park, 286 N. Apopka Ave., Inverness. Visit  TasteofInverness.com or call (352) 341-7820. All ages event, beer garden for adults 21 and up. $5 admission and $25 ticket includes admission and unlimited beer samples. Concert by the Mark Anthony Band.

Participating Eateries:

*   Rising Sun Bistro

*   Barn Goddess Barbeque Food Truck

*   The Jerk Hut

*   Ruffino’s Italian Food Truck

*   OMG Pretzel Bites

*   My Cousin Vinny Roast Beef

*   Seafood Shack Food Truck

*   Cattle Dog Roasters

*   Light My Fire Pizza

*   Pine Street Pub

*   The Cove

*   Sonny’s BBQ

*   Smokin Good BBQ Food Truck

*   Papa John’s Pizza

*   Pop Fusions

*   Lynn’s Ice Cream

*   Ice Cream DR, Inverness

Participating Breweries:

*   Funky Buddha

*   Big Storm

*   Cooppertail Brewing

*   Motorworks Brewing

*   Three Daughters Brewing

*   Ormond Beach Brewing

*   Swamphead Brewery

*   Copp Brewery

Judges:

*   Jason Mayhew, judge, food and entertainment blogger, OrlandoFunandFood.com

*   Josee Lanzi, judge, chef and blogger, OfftheHookonthePlate.com

*   Debbie Reidm judge, chef and blogger, DebbiesCookingAddiction.com

*   Jesse Iannotti Scott, food and beverage expert