Long Beach AOH to host annual foodie event

The Ancient Order of Hibernians Division 17 of Long Beach is set to host its third annual Tasting by the Sea fundraising event on Friday, May 10 where guests have the opportunity to sample cuisine from local eateries around the barrier island.

“The tasting event allows the local establishments to showcase some of their food, which allows residents the chance to find a new place that they would like to visit this summer,” John McGovern, AOH president, said in a statement. “The event allows us to continue helping others in the community.”

From 7 to 10 p.m. at the Long Beach Catholic Regional School gymnasium, located at 735 W. Broadway, there will be tastings from more than 20 restaurants from Atlantic Beach, Long Beach and Point Lookout. Live music will be provided by local band Kin & Tonic and the proceeds will promote “friendship, unity and Christian charity,” organizers said.

Local restaurants taking part in the fundraiser include The Beginnings, Boardwalk Bagel & Deli, The Cabana, Speakeasy, The Saloon, Minnesota’s, Lily’s of Long Beach, The Inn of Long Beach, Swingbelly’s, Beach House, Castaway, Lost at Sea, Blacksmith’s Breads & Spreads, Jetty, Long Beach Sandwich Shoppe, Brixx & Barley, JJ Coopers, Pure Shore Kitchen and the Buoy Bar.

“The Buoy will be serving our homemade crab cakes and shrimp dumplings,” Jeane Magan, manager of the Buoy Bar said in a statement. “This event really gives us nice exposure to potential new customers and to spend time chatting with friends from the neighborhood. We just love the vibe of the people and the music — it really kicks off the summer season at the perfect time!”

An array of beverages would be provided by Long Island wineries and brewing companies, such as Barrier Brewing Co., Sixpoint Brewery, Dogfish Head Brewery, Austin Eastciders and more. Additionally, local distributor First Break Coffee Roasters would provide hot and cold coffee to guests.

“The culinary landscape in Long Beach has changed dramatically since we opened Speakeasy in 2007,” Jake Marlin of Speakeasy said in a statement. “Great chefs, bakers and brewers have made Long Beach a foodie destination. The Tasting by the Sea is a great showcase of all the talent and creativity Long Beach has to offer.”

Organizers said they hope the event will be a great way to kick off the upcoming summer season in taste, and in style.

“Being involved in the organizing of the Tasting by the Sea in its third year has been an absolute delight and an attribute to increasing my passionate desire to be involved with contributing to many worthy causes that help others,” Greg Schmalenberger, organizer and AOH vice president, said in a statement. “The tasting is an example of how the AOH and local businesses work together to support our community and generate the necessary resources to make donations to local charitable causes.”

“I still have memories of being 10 years old eating chicken wings at Chauncy’s,” Raymond Smith of Blacksmith’s Breads said in a statement. “Flash forward 20 years and I’m participating in an event showcasing the talents of local chefs and restaurateurs. It’s the epitome of growth and change in a place I’ve called home for so long.”

Tickets are $40 each and include tastings, beer and wine samples. Organizers said tickets are limited and would not be sold at the door this year. To purchase tickets, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/tasting-by-the-sea-tickets-59863090114. For more information, contact info@aohlongbeachdiv17.org.