On Friday evening, the TDDA held its second annual Global Food Fest. (Photo by Storme Smith)

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TRYON—On June 27, the Tryon Downtown Development Association hosted the second annual Tryon Global Food Fest. The event drew both locals and visitors to downtown to savor an array of international cuisines. 

The event proved to be a hit, with attendees savoring flavors from around the world made by Tryon residents. “It was an unmitigated success,” remarked TDDA volunteer Steven Siler, who helped spearhead the event. “At the very least, virtually everyone ran out of food.” 

Siler said that as a cookbook author, he has traveled the world collecting recipes. 

“To have an event like this in Tryon, where everyone can sample an amazing diversity of foods, just reinforces that we have picked the right place in this big world to live,” he said.

This year, the festivities spotlighted an impressive lineup of local dishes, garnering excitement among attendees. Wild Petunias served Connie Cook’s Pfeffernüsse Cookies, while Mountain Trail Soap’s Terri McKinney offered a flavorful Paella. Huckleberry’s presented a Vegetarian Mediterranean Bean Salad, and Katie D’s Sea Shack showcased their refreshing Ceviche. 

Tryon Painters and Sculptors featured Cornelia Scibetta’s Southern Snacks, with Steven Siler of Tryon Foothills Realty serving up Beef Bulgogi & Oi-Muchim Jerk Chicken. Other offerings included Back Alley Boutique & Bud Bar’s Pizelles, The Nest’s Fire Roasted Gazpacho with Crusty Bread, and Mirrorball Gallery/Chef Sharon’s Kimchi, Tres Leches, and Falafel.

Tryon Foothills Realty / Steven Siler claimed first, Chile Verde by Foothills Mercantile took second, and the Livery Pourhouse finished third with Keilbasa and Pierogies. 

“A huge amount of gratitude to Lourdes Gutierrez, Tim Daniels and TDDA, as well as the merchants who were gracious enough to host all of the participants,” said Siler. 

The event served as a tasty reminder of the community spirit that is fostered in Tryon. The atmosphere was further enhanced by the local music scene with Brooke Campbell at the Livery Pourhouse and Pearl Collide at KD’s Sea Shack.

Mark your calendars for the next Tryon 4th Friday event, scheduled for July 25 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.