Nibble: CT Food Events & Happenings for August 11-18

Two things that embody summer: Croquet and Rose! Enjoy both on the Artisan (West Hartford) event lawn on Monday August 12. A $25 ticket includes game play on the event lawn, two tickets for beer, wine or soft beverages, and Artisan's hand crafted hors d'oeuvres.

There are kids in the kitchen! Stew Leonard’s Newington is offering an “It’s Raining Tacos” culinary class for tots and kids this week. On Tuesday 8/13 and Friday 8/16, toddlers ages 2-5 will prepare taco quesadillas, taco mac & cheese, and tacos. Also on Tuesday, kids ages 6-12 can learn new skills in a separate session.

Walrus + Carpenter in Bridgeport is known for its tasty BBQ… and it’s soon to be known for its beer! Join them to try their own newly launched beer, Walrus Ale + Lager. Plus, they’ll soon have a food trailer hitting the streets. “The Flying Pig" will be making its way to breweries, festivals, and more.

Have you gotten your tickets for the Hey Stamford! Food Festival? Don’t wait- with 40+ food trucks over 2 days, they’ve got more delicious food than you could imagine for one weekend! And here’s one more reason to stop by: a Veg Out! Vegan Pop-Up was just added to the line-up.

Hamilton Park, located at The Blake Hotel in New Haven, has officially re-launched under the direction of celebrated Chef Tyler Anderson (Millwright’s, Porrón&Piña), along with partners A.J. Aurrichio (Millwright’s, Porrón&Piña) and Tim Cabral (Ordinary, Porrón&Piña), as well as Co-Executive Chef Ashley Flagg (Little Donkey, Grant’s).  The seasonal food menu highlights the flavors of New England, complemented by a full beverage program.

Get ready for some adventure- an Underground Dinner is coming to Terrain Café! On Wednesday, August 14, Andrew Mercado is bringing his unique pop-up dining experience, Underground, to the property’s newly expanded gardens. Guests can purchase a ticket for $85, which will get them a spot at this intimate and unforgettable evening of inventive cuisine that will be enjoyed nestled in terrain’s blooming nursery. The evening will begin with a welcome cocktail on the patio before guests are whisked away to a private table to enjoy a four-course meal presented by Terrain Café’s culinary team led by Head Chef Jes Bengtson.

Fall is just around the corner (yeah, we said it) and Harvest Fest tickets are now on sale. The ninth-annual farm-to-table Harvest Fest takes place on Saturday, September 14 at Wakeman Town Farm from 6-10 p.m.

In honor of iced latte month, Hartford Baking Company will be serving special iced latte flavors all month long! Flavors include Golden Milk Lattes, Unicorn Lattes, Teddy Graham Lattes, and Snickers Lattes.

“Basque” in the glory of New London and its culinary scene on Saturday August 17. The New England Basque Club will be hosting the second annual Basque Festival at Parade Plaza in New London. The festival is a celebration of all things Basque, including sports, authentic dance and of course food. Basque  chefs from across the world will be coming to State Street to celebrate and share their culture with Connecticut.

Say cheese! The Westport Farmers’ Market, in conjunction with the Westport Arts Center, announces the start of one of its most popular programs – Young Shoots. Young Shoots is a friendly photography contest for kids ages 8 to 18. The goal is to capture images of the Farmers Market as they see it. First place winners in each category will receive a $100 cash prize and the opportunity to lead a photo shoot with Westport chef Bill Taibe. Second place winners will each receive a $50 cash prize. The public will also have a chance to vote. www.westportartscenter.org.

High George, New Haven’s newest rooftop bar, is hosting the inaugural Kick-Off Party to New Haven Cocktail Week.  The Spirits Ball will take place Sunday, August 18 from 2-5pm and feature samplings of spirits from NHCW sponsors, complimentary snacks from Tyler Anderson, and music by Connie Carmona.  A cash bar will be available for craft cocktails.  Advance tickets are available for $50 per person; tickets will be available at the door (if available) for $60 per person.  Each ticket purchase includes one limited edition NHCW tasting glass.

The Oyster Club continues its collaboration with Stone Acres Farm on Thursday August 15. This week, enjoy Korean BBQ curated by Chef Amee of Oyster Club, featuring all manner of things marinated, grilled & fermented! $35 per person plus tax and gratuity, includes food. Craft cocktails, beer and wine available a la carte.

Who is the best in West Hartford? It’s time to cast your vote! " The Best of West Hartford Voting will launch on Wednesday, August 14 at the Taste of Home Design District Food Truck Festival. A $10 admission ticket includes music, entertainment, chair massage, games. Pay festival prices as you eat and drink at the trucks!