KEY WEST, Florida Keys — For decades Key West has been renowned for the creativity of its artists, and its culinary artists are no exception. From 6-9 p.m. Monday, April 19, the island city’s top chefs are to display their prowess in a palate-pleasing feast called Taste of Key West.

Now in its 15th year, the showcase of culinary artistry features “tastes” from more than 50 local restaurants. To complement the cuisine, fine wines from 100 vineyards and wineries are to be provided by Republic National Distributing Co.

The one-night open-air event benefits the Florida Keys’ AIDS Help Inc., and takes place at the Truman Waterfront, located at the end of Southard Street past Truman Annex.

Admission to Taste of Key West is free. Attendees purchase food and wine tickets for $1 apiece, and commemorative wine glasses for $6, then “spend” their tickets on beverages and delicacies. Each sample costs between three and eight tickets.

Free parking is to be available at the Truman Waterfront. Free shuttle service between selected Key West locations and the waterfront is to be provided every 30 minutes by Old Town Trolley. Plans call for the last trolley to leave the waterfront at 9 p.m.

For more information including Taste of Key West trolley stops, call AIDS Help at 305-296-6196 or visit www.aidshelp.cc.

For lodging information in Key West, call 1-800-LAST-KEY (800-527-8539) or visit the Keys Web site at www.fla-keys.com.

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