Starting tomorrow, the Taste of Downtown returns to the East Village with two evenings of food sampling from Downtown restaurants accompanied by live music and art. The event will take place on First Street between Linden and Elm Ave. with more than a dozen restaurants and food-oriented businesses taking part.

“The Taste of Downtown in the East Village reflects the unique spirit of this Downtown neighborhood,” said Michelle Manire, Chairperson of DLBA’s Marketing and Special Events Task Force. “Each year we work to produce a series of three Taste of Downtown events that highlight Downtown’s eclectic neighborhoods, as well as our many delicious and diverse international restaurants.”

Some of the participants at this year’s East Village event include: Auld Dubliner, Beachwood BBQ, Buono’s Authentic Pizzeria, Cold Stone Creamery, Crème De La Crepe, District Wine, Fresh Kabobs, Gladstone’s, Hooters, Kabob Curry, Rocco’s Italian Deli, Shortnin’ Bread, Sky Room, Tropicana Cuban Café, Utopia and more.

Providing the music will be the Long Beach Caravan Trio, who will perform both nights. Attendees will also enjoy art displays and see live wire art demonstrations by Jeremy West of Primal Flower and can take part in all-ages art classes taught by Brushstrokes and Beverages.

Tickets are available now at downtownlongbeach.org or at the event for $1 each (or 12 for $10). Each restaurant will redeem tickets in exchange for a serving of their signature dish(es). Those who bike to the event will enjoy complementary bike valet (located at First St. and Elm) provided by the East Village Association.

For more information about the DLBA, its programs and services, please visit their website or call (562) 436-4259.