If there was a hungry person left standing among the approximately 550 or so who attended the fifth annual “A Taste of Weehawken” Tuesday night at Lincoln Harbor, then that person was rarer than an original Picasso or an ostrich in flight. .
Because everywhere you turned, there was another delectable delight being offered. Tons of tuna. Skewers of beef, chicken and shrimp. Trays of roasted pork. Salads, soups and desserts for days. .
There were dishes of all varieties and tastes, from all different cultures and backgrounds – and they kept coming and coming. .
It was the best turnout of participating restaurants and catering businesses that donated their time, services and food for the fundraiser, which aids the Weehawken Free Public Library produce more programs for its patrons. .
Helps the library.
“I was really impressed,” said Leona Nersessian, the president of the Library Board. “We had a lot more room this year, and we were able to spread things out more. Everything went nice and easy. The people who were serving were able to mingle and talk, so that was exceptionally nice. Plus, there were a lot of new people there, so that was very encouraging.” .
The chefs who participated couldn’t have enjoyed themselves more, handing out sample after sample while seeing the public that they don’t normally get to see. Usually, they’re buried in a kitchen some place, either at their restaurant or their business. But here, they were face-to-face with the general public. .
“It’s a fantastic night,” Weehawken Mayor Richard Turner said. “The library raised a lot of money [more than $15,000] and it’s a beautiful evening. All the food was fantastic. Everyone’s having a really good time. Each year, it keeps getting bigger and bigger. There were more restaurants participating and more people came out.” .
Susan Jennings, who is a member of the Library Board, was pleased. .
“It was a spectacular turnout,” Jennings said. “I liked the fact that the restaurateurs had more time to talk to the people.” .
Jennings also liked the wine presentation given by Keith Black of Vigneto on Park Avenue, who had a wine-tasting class. .
“People were definitely interested,” Black said. “I thought it went very well. Everyone was very excited. I thought the wine presentation was going to be a little more informal. You really can’t taste wines holding a microphone. But I enjoyed myself. I saw a lot of old friends, because I used to be in the restaurant business.” .
“Vigneto gave a wonderful presentation,” Jennings said. “I really thought the turnout was incredible. It’s nice to see all the new faces. It was a nice introduction to the community. I think it truly captured Weehawken’s flavor. I loved it.” .
Weehawken resident Eric Paulson also enjoyed himself. .
“It was incredible fun,” Paulson said. “It never disappoints. For me, it’s one of the best nights Weehawken has to offer. It brings everyone together like no other event, except for perhaps Weehawken Day. It’s a great way to explore the entire culinary community, and you’re doing your part in helping the Library at the same time.” .
Paulson spent most of his time helping his friend and neighbor, Paula Frazier, who owns Paula’s at Rigoletto on Park Avenue. .
Get well, Phil.
The only thing missing from the evening was Library Executive Director Phillip Greco, who is still recovering after open heart surgery. .
“We missed Phil, but everyone chipped in,” Nersessian said. “It’s like a wedding. We plan for it for a year and then before you know it, you’re saying ‘Good night.’ But it was a great night.” .