Flavors of St. John 2008

With a perfect breeze and balmy temperatures, Rotary Club of St. John celebrated its annual charity event Flavors of St. John on November 22. Billed as the "socio-gastronomic event of the year," Flavors was host to more than 20 of St. John's finest caterers and restaurants. Beneath two elegant pavilions on the beach at the Westin St. John, the participants arranged a sampling of their fare for the attendees, while Paradise People filled the tent with the sounds of Caribbean jazz. The event drew nearly 150 people - not down at all from last year. "It was really good, especially given today's economy," says B.J. Harris, president of the Rotary Club of St. John. "We're really grateful that people dug deep to come out to this event."

And the attendees were certainly richly rewarded for their generosity. In addition to a variety of wines, the participating chefs put together a dizzying array of the finest cuisine that St. John has to offer. Venison tartare with foie gras and a portwine reduction from Hinds. A rich, classic seafood paella from La Tapa. The best darn chili dogs this side of Philly from Salt Pond newcomer The Tourist Trap. The culinary treasures ran the (delicious, delicious) gamut.

At the end of an evening of eating and drinking (and eating and eating and eating), a victor was declared. By a vote of the people, the chefs at the Westin Resort were declared the winners, with Rhumb Lines and the Beach Bar in second and third place respectively. Also victorious was the Rotary Club - this year's Flavors raised $15,000, most of which will go to support their scholarship fund, which helps four St. John graduates pay for college every year.