Arboretum's Toast & Taste Highlights 'Green, Fresh & Local'

Join us Wednesday, July 16, for the best outdoor party of summer!

Chanhassen, MN (July 8, 2014) Get ready for the ultimate summer garden party!

On Wednesday, July 16, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum will be the setting for Toast & Taste in the Gardens, an annual celebration of the Twin Cities' "fresh, local and green" cuisine with tastes from local restaurants, including ethnic specialties, plus sips of regional wines and local brews. It all unfolds in early evening in the exquisite outdoor gardens and terraces of the Arboretum.

Reservations are $75 for general admission from 7 to 9 p.m. (including a $30 tax-deductible donation); $125 for patron-level early-access admission at 6 p.m. (includes $80 tax-deductible donation). All proceeds benefit the Arboretum. For more information, call 612-625-9875 or visit www.arboretum.umn.edu/toastandtaste.aspx.

To date, participating restaurants include: Chowgirls Killer Catering, Dakota Restaurant/Jazz Club, French Hen, Gardens of Salonica, Joey Nova's, Lakewinds Natural Foods, Mill Valley Kitchen, Minneapolis Club, New Scenic Café, Oceanaire Seafood Room, The Rabbit Hole/ Lefthanded Cook (Korean fare), Signature Café, Strip Club Meat & Fish, Terra Waconia, UMN Bee Squad and Arboretum Catering featuring Executive Chef Scott Pampuch.

Participating wineries include: Parley Lake Winery, St. Croix Vineyards, Carlos Creek Winery, Indian Island Winery, Chankaska Wines. Breweries include Brau Brothers, Surly Brewing and Excelsior Brewing, with more to come! Toast & Taste is presented by the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Foundation. Sponsors: Jeannine Rivet and Warren Herreid II, United Health Group & RBC Wealth Management.

Shorter Listing information:
Toast & Taste in the Gardens. Wednesday, July 16, 6-9 p.m. $75 general admission at 7 p.m.; $125 pre-party patron reception at 6 p.m. Sample in-season, fresh cuisine from Twin Cities restaurants, plus Minnesota wines & brews, while strolling the gardens. Proceeds benefit the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. To reserve, call 612-625-9875 or visit www.arboretum.umn.edu/toastandtaste.aspx.