“He has an ability to take everyday food and make it a little better,” Lloyd said – an attribute the Incredible Food Show organizers believe will resonate with foodies and novices alike.
In addition to the return of over 100 food exhibitors, the Kentucky wineries area, Kids Craft Café, on-going cooking demonstrations and free samples from gourmet food vendors, hungry bellies can take a stroll down Restaurant Row to purchase small plates of food from local restaurants. The concept not only allows attendees to munch on more than samples throughout the day, but gives local restaurants an opportunity to showcase their unique dishes, in turn hopefully welcoming new patrons to their restaurant.
The Quick Tips Booth, a new feature at this year’s show, will be set up amid the hustle and bustle of the show, encouraging passersby to stop and watch a local food expert at work in the kitchen. Lloyd’s hope is that this less formal format will give watchers a chance to stop and ask a question and hopefully pick up a “quick tip” they can take home and use in their own culinary endeavors.
Perhaps the biggest draw each year for food show goers is The Marketplace. The show devotes a large section to what Kentuckians love most: Kentucky-based food. From beer cheese to granola to goetta and honey, The Marketplace brings local food based companies under one roof to showcase their products, one sampling at a time.
Lloyd knows without a doubt, this year’s food show has something for everyone. “I think the show has evolved into exactly what I was hoping it would over the years: the connection of our local producers directly to the consumer, the advancement of Kentucky Proud, and the continued support of eating and buying locally. All of these aspects were a goal from the beginning, and I see it at every show.”
Incredible Food Show Where: The lower level of the Lexington Convention Center and Rupp Arena When: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Oct. 27 Parking: Free parking is available in the High Street lot across the street from Rupp Arena or in the Manchester Street Lot off Main Street. Chef Tyler Florence: 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. At 1:30 p.m., chef Florence will make an appearance in the Joseph-Beth Bookseller area of the show signing books for one hour. Tickets: Online (www.incrediblefoodshow.com) or at the door the day of the show.
