News Summary
Taste! Central Florida, an annual culinary event, is set to take place at the Orlando World Center Marriott. With over 80 food partners, including renowned local restaurants, the event aims to raise funds for child hunger initiatives. It features interactive experiences, a raffle with prizes, and participation from the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida. Ticket proceeds directly benefit local hunger-fighting organizations, with a goal to surpass last year’s fundraising efforts.
Orlando, Florida – Taste! Central Florida, an annual culinary event focused on fighting child hunger, is set to take place on July 12, 2025, from 6:30 PM to 11:00 PM at the Orlando World Center Marriott. This year’s event is expected to feature a record-breaking number of over 80 food and beverage partners, with contributions from renowned local restaurants.
The Taste! event has been organized by the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida and the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida since its inception in 1989. Originally partnered with the No Kid Hungry organization, the event transitioned to a locally-focused initiative, allowing it to better serve the needs of children in Central Florida.
Noteworthy restaurants participating this year include Smokemade Meats, recognized in the prestigious Michelin Guide, and Chuan Fu, known for its authentic Sichuan cuisine. The diverse roster of culinary partners will showcase various food experiences in unique presentations, moving away from traditional chafing dish setups.
Summer is an important time for addressing food insecurity, particularly among families with school-aged children who depend on school meals for sustenance. With schools closed, these children face significant challenges in accessing nutritious food. Last year, Taste! Central Florida successfully raised over $260,000 to help local children in need, and this year’s goal is to exceed that amount.
Attendees of the event will not only enjoy exquisite food and beverages but also have the opportunity to win prizes through a raffle. Among the featured items are an Instant Wine Cellar and a Liquor Locker, with combined prize values nearing $15,000. The event encourages donations up until its occurrence, supporting the cause of alleviating child hunger.
Aside from culinary delights, participants will experience interactive components such as photo booths, roaming magicians, and live performances by the Paradigm Party Band, adding a lively atmosphere to the event. A total of 23 local restaurants will contribute to creating a vibrant and diverse culinary experience that celebrates the region.
Tickets for the event are priced at $200 per person, although a promotional code is available for guests seeking discounts. Proceeds from ticket sales directly benefit local organizations dedicated to fighting child hunger in the area.
Taste! Central Florida combines a unique and elevated experience that goes beyond just food and drink, promising enjoyment while addressing an urgent community need. As the event approaches, organizers and participants alike remain hopeful for a successful turnout that further advances their mission of combating child hunger in Central Florida.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New Education Laws Take Effect in Florida
Orlando’s Culinary Scene Thrives with New Dining Experiences
Addressing Educational Disparities in High School Education
Orlando’s College Park Neighborhood: A Jewel of Urban Living
Baldwin Park Secures Funding for New Public Park
CFX to Implement Toll Rate Increases for Central Florida Roads
Central Florida Independence Day Celebrations
Increased Black Bear Sightings Reported in Orlando
Family-Focused Events in Central Florida This Summer
Noir Bar Unveils New Hours and Unique Cocktail Menu
Additional Resources
- Orlando Sentinel: Taste! Central Florida Returns
- Wikipedia: Hunger in the United States
- Orlando Date Night Guide: Taste! Central Florida
- Google Search: Taste Central Florida
- WESH: The Florida Project Brings Taste of Hollywood
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Child Hunger
- Click Orlando: Taste the Unexpected
- Google Scholar: Child Hunger Initiatives Florida
- Your Community Paper: A Taste of Central Florida
- Google News: Food Insecurity Florida
