For the week of June 20 - June 26, 2001

Best of the Valley

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By ADAM TANOUS
Express Arts Editor

One of the comments people often make about the European culinary tradition is that it is so much more refined than what’s commonly found in the United States. In Europe meals are events: lengthy social affairs where as many flavors as ideas are shared among friends.

This weekend valley residents can enjoy a slice of the Old World style at the Sixth Annual Best of the Valley culinary event to be held at Sun Valley’s Elkhorn Resort. Gourmands young and old will descend on the Elkhorn Plaza Saturday, from 4-8 p.m., for an eclectic selection of the valley’s foods.

Chefs from over 20 valley restaurants will set up in the plaza to prepare their finest dishes. Just a few of the participating establishments include Evergreen, The Wild Radish, Esta’s, Chandler’s, Omlay’s and Cottonwood Catering.

Entry tickets cost $5. Patrons may then purchase $1 food tickets that they can exchange for items from the various restaurants on site. Everyone then enjoys their food together at tables set up in the plaza. More often than not, it is a warm evening where participants move from table to table, visiting and enjoying a wide array of foods.

In addition to the feast, there will be live music and dancing, as well as activities for children. A silent auction and raffle will also take place.

Some reserved seating in the form of corporate tables will be available.

Best of the Valley is a fund-raising event for the Blaine County Teen Advisory Council. This organization seeks ways to improve the community for youths. For more information or to reserve a corporate table, call 788-2117.

The Idaho Mountain Express is distributed free to residents and guests throughout the Sun Valley, Idaho resort area community. Subscribers to the Idaho Mountain Express will read these stories and others in this week's issue.