Inaugural Taste & Toast Gulf Coast Raises $7,500 for Hospitality Education

A Winning Debut Featuring Culinary Excellence, Craft Beverages, Local Artisans, Live Demonstrations, Derby Day Flair, Country Rock, and Fireworks Finale

Palmetto, FL – Presented by the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa and the Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, the inaugural Taste & Toast Gulf Coast welcomed nearly 600 guests to The Yard at Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa for a vibrant Kentucky Derby-themed celebration of culinary creativity, signature cocktails and brews, live music, and spirited community support—all while advancing the future of Florida’s hospitality industry.

Decked out in Derby fashion with festive hats, live race viewings, and Southern-inspired flair, guests enjoyed an unforgettable day of sampling, socializing, and celebrating a meaningful cause. Event highlights included:

• Swordfish Tuna Filet Demonstration presented by Chef Greg Campbell (Pier 22 and The Grove)

• Sip Like a Pro bourbon class with Jean-Luc Knowles, “The Bourbon Nerd” (Maker’s Mark)

• The Final Pour & Dessert Excellence with Chef Alon Gontowski, Executive Pastry Chef and Ryan Beyer, “The Bargician” (Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa)

The evening continued with a high-energy performance from Florida-native and rising country-rock artist Rob Langdon, followed by a dazzling fireworks finale.

This year’s Taste & Toast coincided with the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby, where Sovereign surged to a thrilling win. The meaning behind the name – "to reign supreme" – perfectly captured the spirit of the evening, where chefs, mixologists, artisans, and vendors competed neck and neck in a dynamic, high-caliber showcase of Gulf Coast talent.

Event organizers proudly presented Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) Suncoast Chapter Board Members Wes Santos and Gil Reyes with a $7,500 donation to benefit the chapter’s education initiatives.

“Our mission extends beyond celebration,” said Tony DeRusso, Managing Director of the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa. “Taste & Toast Gulf Coast supports the FRLA Suncoast Chapter’s vital work, helping shape the next generation of hospitality professionals while spotlighting the best in food and beverage from our region.”

“We are incredibly grateful to the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa and Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, and all participants for investing in our future leaders,” added Dannette Lynch, Regional Director of the FRLA Suncoast Chapter.

Taste & Toast Gulf Coast Winners Circle

Culinary Awards

• Flavor & Flair – Most impressive in taste, creativity, and visual appeal

  • enRich Bistro
    

• Sweet Toast – Best dessert bite for flavor, innovation, and presentation

  • Mean Deans Local Kitchen
    

• Perfect Pair – Best sweet & savory combination

  • Café on St. Armand

Beverage Awards

• Shaken & Stirred – Best cocktail for balance and creativity

  • Metagave Tequila
    

• Bold Pour – Best wine tasting, honoring depth and craftsmanship

  • Silverado by Foley Family Wines
    

• Tapped & Toasted – Best brewery tasting, highlighting excellence and crowd-pleasing appeal

  • Motorworks Brewing – Pulp Friction

People’s Choice Awards

• Taste of the Town – Culinary fan favorite

  • Gecko’s
    

• Toast of the Town – Beverage fan favorite

  • Maker’s Mark

Creative Loafing Best Taste Award – Awarding best overall food and beverage tasting

• Central Café

*Creative Loafing is a regional alternative media platform covering food, culture, and entertainment across the Tampa Bay area.

FRLA Suncoast Chapter Best in Show – Best Overall Tastings, recognizing outstanding taste, presentation, and creativity across all participants

• 1st Place: Café on St. Armands

• 2nd Place: The Château Anna Maria

• 3rd Place: Kendall Jackson Kentucky Derby Wine – Jackson Family Wines

With big hats, bold bites, and even bigger heart, Taste & Toast Gulf Coast made a triumphant debut—where tight races and neck-and-neck competition added to the Derby Day thrill. As this signature event continues to grow, it remains committed to elevating Gulf Coast talent, building industry partnerships, and creating unforgettable experiences for years to come.