I would never call myself a foodie, but that does not stop me from eating everything in my sight.

I attended the Indy Food Fest last year with Opinions Editor Caty McGovern, and this year I again wanted to immerse myself into food culture.

The first thing we did when we entered the Champions Pavilion at the State Fair Grounds, was to buy some grand tasting pavilion tickets so we could try some of the vendor food.

Caty and I first tried some mini cupcakes at “Heavenly Sweets,” which is run by Tonya Mitchell. She won Clash of the Grandmas on Food Network. Their salted caramel cupcake almost made me cry because it was the perfect blend of sweet and salty.

Claire Dorsch
Big Poppa’s Pork Pit was another vendor we tried. Their pork slider was savory, yet sweet. Caty describes it as “porky.”

I was happy with the number of vendors that were in attendance and enjoyed the ones we ate at, which was about half a dozen.

The set up was different than the previous year, but the crowds of people were still able to mill around and see the numerous brands while also indulging in the numerous free samples they were blessed with.

Caty and I also bought tickets for the  pasta making lesson.  The ticket for it was more expensive than the ticket into the Food Fest, but who does not love learning how to make their own pasta? The instructors were very helpful and teaching. In the end, we got to eat our own pasta, which was satisfying in and itself.

I recommend the Food Fest to all foodies, families, and friends who want to eat some good food and have a good time at the State Fairgrounds.

Claire Dorsch