On Saturday, Fe
bruary 2nd, my daughter and I attend our first Chowder Fest, it was so much fun. The City of Saratoga Springs has been hosting Chowder Fest for the past fifteen years. Even with the cold temperatures and snow in the air, downtown Saratoga was teeming with people, all waiting to sample some chowder.
The local restaurants and pubs spend months perfecting their special chowders and make gallons to server to their many fans. Of course, there is competition among the chefs and ballots are provided for the taste testers to vote on their favorite chowder. While many of the chowders were seafood based, some of the chefs made special vegetarian and vegan chowders.
Our favorite “chowders” were the desserts, we had a sundae with a chocolate theme and mini chocolate cupcakes with coconut chum frosting. I really enjoy and admire the creativity of the local chefs.
We saw many dogs all dressed in their winter coats and sweaters walking up and down Broadway. Some of the business had a special chowder for the dogs. I was surprised to see how well behaved the dogs were with so many people and other dogs present. I guess they were all be bribed with the promise of chowder if they behaved! One little black lab puppy was barking up a storm, we thought he was cold and tired and wanted to go home!
Chowder Fest was a great outing. I think everyone was happy to be out in the fresh air, enjoying some awesome food, listening to the music provided by several places and chatting with people. I’m sure will be making plans to attend again next February!
