First Edition of Le Taste of France Show: A Success !
Predictions of bad weather did not deter New York Francophiles last weekend. They were nearly 5,000 visitors rushing to Le Taste of France Show on Pier 54 to enjoy this little piece of France settled in Manhattan for two days.
Between pétanque tournaments, concerts, a French bulldog show, and fine array of French foods and wines visitors – mostly Americans – had the pleasure to discover some aspects of French culture with a smile on their faces.
Seduced by the food cooked by the Académie Culinaire de France as well as theMaîtres Cuisiniers de France, many returned to the entrance time and time again to trade their dollars 
for Mariannes, making the most of this one-of-a-kind experience and contributing to the fund-raising intended for Action Against Hunger, main sponsor of the event. And what could be more pleasant than to serve a great cause by tasting some traditional French dishes, such as bouillabaisse, leek and maroilles cheese quiche, roast Atlantic turbot beurre blanc, as well as crepes, cannelés and macaroons?
At the center of the Pier, the French Bulldog Show entertained the crowd pressed around the stage to applaud the 25 finalists dressed up for the occasion: smallbérets, pearl necklaces, and even bodysuits trimmed with the French flag. Their masters did not lack imagination to clinch first place for their adorable dogs. It is eventually Bruno who won the contest. This friendly little dog won over the crowd thanks to all the kisses he offered at the French Kisses booth!
On the opposite side, pétanqueattracted many fans of the famous French game. If true enthusiasts were present, children and women in heels did not hesitate to participate, both feet in the sand.
At the end of the day, La Soirée was a moment where guests were able to attend the performance of Emilie Simon, Perle Lama and jazz band Soul’d Out, with a glass of champagne in their hands.
The French Minister of Foreign Affairs, while on an official visit to New York, also enjoyed the show, to the point that he offered government financial support for the next edition.
So, dear Francophiles, see you next year!
By Manon Paulic
