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Health & Fitness

Adventures of a Foodie at 'A Taste of Fair Oaks'

The sun was setting and I was absolutely sated.

Expanding horizons are a good thing. So getting to know the new 'HOOD took me to the 19th Annual a Taste of Fair Oaks presented by the Fair Oaks Chamber of Commerce. The was a wonderful setting on the warm evening of June 1. The terrace areas and the ballroom were arranged with 24 wineries, five micro breweries, and 17 restaurants/catering. It was thoughtfully set up with chairs and tables with live entertainment. A large array of silent raffle items drew a continous wave of attendees looking for the just right bargain. But with the setting describe lets get to the nitty gritty.

I'm pretty sure that most of the restaurants were known by a majority of those attending (being this was a Chamber event). But for me - new exposure starting with . They had two types of chicken wings served with blue cheese or ranch dressing. They were truly lip smacking. Balancing a plate and a Pyramid ale amongst a crowd became challenging. Having some experience with this kind of event it didn't take me long to drink the beer and devour the wing. A wet wipe was thoughtfully provided to remove the sauce from my cheeks. I have seen the brightly painted pub driving Sunrise, wondering if that would be a place to watch a 49er game. I'm going for the wings.

Lasagne samples were served by and Zinfandel California Cusine. Each different and enjoyed both with a Petite Syrah from two of the many wineries. The wineries were represented by very enthusiastic pourers from Lodi to Fair Play - another new name to explore in the future.

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Wondering around I found one of my new favorites, The Pasta Queen. The fresh made pasta available at the Sunrise and Carmichael farmer markets serving porchini raviolis - it was nice to see a familiar face. sports lounge also served wings, but I went for the cream of mushroom soup which was delicious. The next introduction was the O'Connor's Santa Maria Grill & Catering. Their barbequed sirloin was perfect. The restaurant's menu expounds on a tri-tip dinner that will be a future visit.

The sweets were well represented but my mind expanding adventure was highlighted by The Chocolate Architect. Five different chocolate samples including light, dark, one accented by Blue Cheese and a rocky road were to die for! I zipped over for a Zinfadel port and came back to indulge. The fudge was as advertised "smooth as silk" and so rich. This is a hometown treasure and so glad I have made the "discovery".

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The sun was setting and I was absolutely sated. The event was festive and fun with a foodie education that reminds me that each neighborhood is unique. I am really enjoying my opportunity to enjoy.

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