Delray Beach, FL (April 7, 2016)...Cheers to a successful 8th Annual Savor the Avenue 2016! Downtown Delray Beach on East Atlantic Avenue from Swinton Avenue to East Fifth Avenue (U.S. 1) was once again the place to be when on March 21st 1,160 guests sat down for dinner together at the one quarter mile long dining table. This culinary tradition, made possible by the Delray Beach Magazine & Boca Raton Magazine’s partnership with the Delray Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA), and hosted by Steve Weagle of WPTV NewsChannel 5, showcased many of the fine dining establishments located within the Downtown area.
 
The Delray Beach Historical Society was the beneficiary of $3,360. Each guest reservation included a $3 contribution to this non-profit so that present and future generations can comprehend more fully their predecessors, their communities and Delray Beach’s diverse history. The 18 restaurants prepared 4,400 food courses with three chefs and 10 staff per restaurant, and included: 32 East, 50 Ocean, Cabana El Rey, Caffe Luna Rosa, City Oyster & Sushi Bar, Cut 432, Lemongrass, Max’s Harvest, Max's Social House, Gary Rack’s Fat Rooster, Rack’s Fish House & Oyster Bar, Rocco’s Tacos & Tequila Bar, Salt7, Solita & Mastino Delray, Taverna Opa, The Office, Tryst, and Vic & Angelo’s. The 1,100 bottles of wine weredonated by local beverage distributors to each restaurant. For the fourthyear, the Savor the Avenue restaurants competed in the Best in Show table décor contest. The winners were: 1stplace - 50 Ocean, 2nd place - Salt7, and 3rd place - Max’s Harvest. 
 
Restaurants shared: 
"Savor is the only event that occurs in Delray that focuses on full size menu servings and allows us to bring the restaurant to the street–showcasing the cuisine and décor of Salt7, said Kyle Gonzales, Director of Marketing, Salt7.
 
"This was our 8th year participating and Savor is one of the nicest events that we do– classy, a big draw, and lots of fun! The long table down the Avenue is really cool, guests love this event, and it is also good for the retail businesses and other restaurants Downtown, said Todd Lawrence, General Manager, City Oyster. 
 
"Our guests look forward to Savor the Avenue every year, many calling months ahead of time hoping to secure a spot. We are a long time Delray establishment and 32 East& Tryst have a lot of Delray pride. We couldn't imagine not being a part of such a unique event that highlights many of the best restaurants in Downtown Delray, said Butch Johnson, Owner, 32 East and Tryst. 
 
"Savor The Avenue is an economic development focused program for the DDA, said Laura Simon, Executive Director. As such, we have now moved the event to a Monday based on feedback from our merchants. They believe that this day of the week with the additional traffic of the more than 1,000 guests and others who come to see this unique experience is more beneficial for the Downtown business community. In addition, guests were asked to participate in a survey and were entered into a drawing for an opportunity to win a dinner for two at a Downtown Delray Beach restaurant of their choice. We greatly appreciate everyone’s support for this unique and SOCIAL dining experience. 
 
Guests shared:
"The tables every year are fantastic and so much fun to stroll around and see the creativity. Everyone at this event seems to be in such great spirits and it’s such a joy meeting the new people each year at our table. The staff was awesome, the food was spectacular, the music was perfect for the venue and I can't wait for next years’ Savor the Ave!"
 
"We had nine in our party and everything was fantastic! It all seemed to run very smoothly, and despite the temps being a bit chilly and some winds, it didn't take the "warmth" out of our absolutely favorite Delray Beach event of the year!!"
 
"LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this event!!!! It is so unique and such a great way for the many restaurants to showcase their specialties!!! I recommend this to everyone I know and they all love it after attending. Keep up the great work DELRAY!!!"
 
Savor the Avenue is presented by: JES Publishing (Delray Beach Magazine & Boca Raton Magazine) and the Delray Beach Downtown Development Authority. Savor the Avenue 2016 was sponsored by: Atlantic One Realty, South Florida BMW, 111 First Delray, Atlas Party Rental, and The Hyatt Place Delray Beach. Special thanks to Delray Garden Center for providing plant décor. 
 
For more information, please visit downtowndelraybeach.com or phone 561.243.1077. To view photos from the event visit facebook.com/DelrayDDA.