Solomons, MD – The Taste of Solomons event was hosted by the McNelis Group and the Solomons Business Association on Solomons Island on Saturday, March 26. The participants were 19 restaurants and stores serving samplings of what the island has to offer.

Stoney’s Kingfishers offered crab mac and cheese and fish tacos as part of their sampling. Also, the bar offered a “creamsicle” drink. Their crab dip is regarded by many as the best in town. Andrew, the manager, explained Stoney’s decided to be a part of the event because it’s “always a great way to get a taste of what we serve.”

Boomerangs Original Ribs offered jumbo shrimp and homemade hush puppies that the crowds enjoyed. The ambiance was light and family friendly.

Captain Smith’s Seafood offered a smorgasbord of rockfish bites, fried oysters, hush puppies and fried shrimp. It was definitely a lot of bang for the buck. The owner Chris urged visitors to, “come on down and check us out.”

Running Hare Vineyards had a tent outside where visitors could sample wines and enjoy the sunshine. With a ticket, attendees could get a full glass of his or her favorite wine.

Carmen’s Gallery presented an assortment of cheese, fruit, wine and chocolate. While enjoying these samplings, visitors could check out the beautiful art and jewelry that was on sale. A local treasure, the gallery has been around longer than most of the businesses on the island.

Lotus Kitchen was selling puff pastries, veggie pasta, beer shandy and Italian soda. It’s also known for the key lime pie, breakfast burritos and live music.

Grill SGT BBQ had pig wings, pork sliders, chicken wings and funnel fries on the menu. Mike, the owner, stated “The hibernation is over. Winter was long, but we’re ready!” This company is also noticed in the community for their heavy influence on charity events raising funds for service people including military veterans and police. Their next event will be May 7 at the Calvert Crossfit to raise funds for the fallen policemen of Hartford County.

Every place involved was packed, and the public was happy as the tickets were $4 a piece to sample. The following are all the establishments involved:

1. The Ruddy Duck
2. Boomerangs Original Ribs
3. Captain Smith’s Seafood
4. Isaac’s Rest.& Pub, Holiday Inn
5. Angler’s Seafood Bar & Grill
6. Calvert Marine Museum
7. Dry Dock at Zahniser’s
8. Sail Solomons
9. CD Cafe
10. Kingfishers Seafood
11. Stoney’s at the Striped Rock
12. Running Hare Vineyards (at McNelis)
13. Carmen’s Gallery
14. Calvert Brewing Company (at Carmen’s)
15. The Island Hideaway
16. Lotus Kitchen/Kim’s Key Lime Pies
17. Lighthouse Restaurant & Dock Bar
18. Grill Sgt.
19. The Charles Street Brasserie
20. Ticket Office – The McNelis Group

Organizers touted the event as a wonderful way for businesses to get their name out there and for the local community to not only find their new favorite restaurant but also to discover the newer places to sample and to enjoy a nice day outside and have a gorgeous view of the Chesapeake Bay.