KEY WEST, Florida Keys — It’s not unusual for culinary connoisseurs who visit Key West to search out chefs and restaurants specializing in seafood, tropical and Caribbean flavors, European delicacies, vegetarian treats and more. Only on Monday, April 18, however, can they find virtually all of them in the same place — showcasing their signature dishes at the 16th annual Taste of Key West.

Scheduled for 6-9 p.m., the annual edible extravaganza takes place at the Truman Waterfront, overlooking Key West Harbor at the end of Southard Street past Truman Annex.

The waterfront area is to be transformed into a colorful open-air food and beverage market featuring cuisine from more than 50 local restaurants and caterers. Offerings are to range from gourmet savories to fresh-off-the-boat local seafood and mouthwatering desserts.

To complement their “tastes,” attendees can choose among vintages presented by 100 wineries and vineyards from around the world.

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.

All proceeds benefit Key West’s AIDS Help.

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.

Event information: www.aidshelp.cc or 305-296-6196

Key West visitor information: www.fla-keys.com/keywest or 1-800-LAST-KEY

Social: www.facebook.com/floridakeysandkeywest • twitter.com/thefloridakeys • www.youtube.com/FloridaKeysTV

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