Try New Foods at Bolingbrook Catering Event

I'm kind of a creature of habit. I tend to go to the same restaurants all the time. I've wanted to try some new places, but I hate going to an unknown eatery, spend the money and not care for the food or service. In this economy, I'm not spending money at any place unless I've received a worthy referral. And, I know many of you feel the same way.

Well, this weekend the Bolingbrook Chamber of Business is sponsoring the first Restaurant and Catering Expo. The event will be held from 12 to 6 p.m. on Saturday, July 25 at the Bolingbrook Promenade.

Sponsors for the event said there's going to be about 15 restaurants to sample.

"There's going to be a lot of good restaurants from around Bolingbrook," said Kris Kuchler, marketing director for the Promenade mall. "It gives everybody a tasting. It's kind of like a Taste of Chicago," said Kuchler. "It's the first and we're hoping that it will be the first of many," she added.

The event will be held in the former Circuit City space and will showcase different restaurants, some new restaurants like Longhorn Steakhouse and Andy's Custard and as well as some long standing spots like Branmor's American Grill and Tailgaters Sports Bar and Grill. The event will also include a chef demonstration and a kid's corner where kids can indulge in cookie decorating and crafting.

Mike Evans, executive director for the Bolingbrook Chamber of Business, hopes that the event is a "win-win" for both the local business community as well as local residents.

"Sometimes people don't go out of their boxes and this (event) gives them an opportunity to try our different restaurants," he said.

And just like the Taste of Chicago, food will be offered in sample sizes. Tickets can be purchased at the door. The average vendor is expected to sell their tasters for about three or four tickets, and tickets cost 50 cent each.

I'll be there looking for new eateries, especially those that cater to children. And if I happen to find any especially tasty place, I'll be sure to let you know. See you at the event.

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