“If you build it, they will come.”
This saying has never seemed more appropriate after Saturday’s wildly successful Dinner Market. Kelly and Mark Sanchez, owners of Kelly’s French Bakery, organized a wonderful event on June 27 (see my original preview article for full description) in the Swift Street Courtyard.
Not only did the Santa Cruz community show up, it did so in droves. By 6:10pm, a mere 10 minutes after the event’s “official” start time (some arrived early to save seats, be first in line, etc.), the lines at vendor tables were several people thick. A 100-foot-long table that was the original seating arrangement filled quickly, and more tables were set up in various spots. At 6:45pm it was hard to see through the crowds that filled the courtyard and parking lot. One participant commented that it felt kind of like an outdoor concert environment, with people sitting on curbs or wherever else they could find a seat. Some took advantage of the several tables set up inside assorted wineries. Others stood against doorways or buildings while they savored their fresh food. Even with the absence of enough seating, it appeared that everyone was staying and eating and getting back in line to try something new.
Through it all, the positive energy in the air was palpable. Vendors were elated at the response from the public, and customers were thrilled at the event’s section and affordable prices – most items were $5 or less, enabling folks to purchase a couple items to sample for themselves, or more to share with a group. After people’s initial reactions of “Wow, I can’t believe how many people showed up” and “Look at all this food to choose from,” the next comment on most lips was “When is the next dinner market?” (I hope for another one soon and promise to announce it online when I hear!). Another element that occurred at this market: many reunions. Everywhere you looked, people were hugging long-lost friends and beaming at acquaintances they hadn't seen in years. There was a celebratory ambiance, and the energetic music from a live Klezmer band intensified the sense of excitement.
I’m not going to list every delicious item that was available, but highlights from the evening included Everett Family Farm’s salad served with a round of melt-in-your-mouth goat cheese, Feast for a King Catering’s grilled artichokes with balsamic aioli (ample garlic flavor and balsamic flavors blended well), Cafe Ella's meaty ribs with jalapeno chutney – which sold out quickly, and Kelly’s cream puffs.
By the end of the three-hour event, hundreds of people had attended. If you didn’t make it to this one (or even if you did!), you can view the photo slideshow below to get a sense of Santa Cruz’s first Dinner Market – what many of us hope is the first of a long series where we can celebrate our special community and enjoy a beautiful, delectable array of local food.
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