The Glen Cove Chamber of Commerce kicked off its 28th annual Culinary Delights celebration on April 29 at The Marker restaurant in the city, bringing together business leaders, restaurateurs and residents to highlight the growth of one of Glen Cove’s most enduring traditions.
The event served as both a preview of the upcoming culinary showcase and a moment to recognize individuals who have contributed to the vitality of the city’s business community. Speakers reflected on the event’s history, its impact on local businesses and the importance of continued community support.
Chamber President Maxine Meyris noted that Culinary Delights was created nearly three decades ago as a way to introduce community members to the diverse dining establishments in the area. What began with a small group of participants at the Regency at Glen Cove has since grown into a major regional attraction.
“It was originally designed for the community to be introduced to all the food talent in our community,” Meyris said. “It’s a way the chamber supports businesses by bringing their product to the public and helping them thrive.”
This year’s event will take place on May 18, from 6 to 9 p.m., at the Mansion at Glen Cove. Attendees will have the chance to sample a wide range of offerings, including dishes from local restaurants, as well as desserts, craft beers and wines. A portion of the proceeds will benefit local charities, including NOSH Delivers, and support scholarships for students bound for college or trade school.
Former chamber President Matt Nartowicz said the event has evolved into a premier gathering that continues to draw large crowds. “Culinary Delights started over 25 years ago as a way to highlight our restaurants and food-adjacent businesses,” Nartowicz said. “Since then it has grown to a premier community event featuring more than 50 restaurants, over 60 tasting tables, and last year we welcomed 750 guests, and we’re on pace to do that again.”
He added that guests can expect an immersive experience, with two floors dedicated to restaurants, wineries, breweries and distilleries, along with live music and raffles for prizes from participating businesses. The event also reflects Glen Cove’s cultural diversity, with cuisines spanning a variety of traditions.
A highlight of the kickoff was the recognition of Ylisa Kunz, who was honored for her contributions to the city’s business and civic life. Through her work at RXR Realty, Kunz has served as a liaison to city government, the downtown business improvement district and the Morgan Park Summer Music Festival, helping to strengthen connections between organizations and support local initiatives.
Speakers praised Kunz, who plans to retire from RXR, for her dedication to helping businesses succeed and for her role in shaping community programming. She was also recognized for her involvement in bringing the Deep Roots Farmers Market to Garvies Point, which has become a fixture for residents and visitors.
In her remarks, Kunz said the recognition was unexpected, and described how much her work in the community has meant to her. “The work that I’ve done has been maybe the most rewarding thing that I’ve done in my entire career,” she said, noting that her efforts were supported by RXR and rooted in a belief in strengthening small businesses.
Kunz added that she has valued the relationships she has built through her work with the chamber and other organizations.
Jill Nosa, executive director of the downtown Business Improvement District, thanked Kunz for her contributions, calling her an important voice who will be missed.
The kickoff also highlighted the broader purpose of Culinary Delights as a platform for connection. Celeste Gullo, an agent with Allstate Insurance in Glen Head, spoke about the role food plays in bringing people together.
“What I love more is what happens when you are around food — the conversations, the laughter, the connections,” Gullo said. “That’s where all the magic happens.” She emphasized that shared meals create opportunities for collaboration and relationship-building, which are essential to the success of local businesses.
Meyris echoed that message, encouraging residents to support the businesses that contribute to Glen Cove’s economy and character. “These are our brothers and sisters who have invested in our community,” she said. “It’s our obligation to support them and keep the businesses thriving.”
Now in its 28th year, Culinary Delights continues to play a central role in promoting the city’s culinary scene while fostering goodwill among residents and business owners. Tickets can be purchased at Glencovechamber.org, and discounts are available for seniors, veterans and first responders.
