Josh’s Thoughts on the Taste of Buffalo Winners

The 29^th annual Taste of Buffalo wrapped up yesterday, and I’m about five pounds heavier!  The weekend was a blast.  Dale and I had the difficult job of being judges on Saturday, but we were able to brave the elements and consume all the wonderful foods.

As judges, we each had to taste food from five vendors with a sixth as a write-in (if you had any more room in your stomach). I judged Kabab & Curry, which made a grilled piece of spicy chicken that was enormous and delicious -- best item on their menu. I also judged Alex's place (great ribs!), Mr. Bones, Zebbs and JP Bullfeathers.

This year’s winners were announced late Saturday.  Personally, I had a "beef" with a couple of the selections, but it is what it is.  Here are some of the winners…

The Chairman’s Choice: Eddie Ryan’s Pot Roast Sandwich. Heard it was great. Dale judged them and ate the whole thing -- didn’t leave me any!

Children’s Choice: Fat Bob’s Mac & Cheese. Nailed it!!

New York Award (picked by Mark Grisanti): Buffalo Tap Room’s Sausage Cacciatora.

Best Comfort Food: Francesca’s Eggplant Fra Diablo.

Rookie of the Year: Cabaret.

Best Overall Item: Orazio’s Brasciole Sliders with Sauce and Cheese. Kind of upset that I missed this one!

Best Meat Item: Papi’s Beef & Cheese Pastelillos. Didn’t try it, but would argue Mr. Bones Smoked Turkey Leg and/or Ribs should have won.  Alex’s Place's ribs were the bomb, too!

Best Seafood Item: Ms. Goodies Junkyard Dog.  This item has been talked about for two years now, and I still haven’t tried it.  Maybe next year.