AURORA | Everyone in the city will be the epicurean judge, but first come the nom-nom-nominations.
Foods from across the globe, found across town in Aurora, are the focus of a favorite flavors contest for the city’s annual Global Fest event this summer.
The June event will host 440 authentic specialty restaurants and markets, dozens of food trucks and other small cuisine businesses, according to a statement from the city.
“As an extension of Global Fest, Global Flavors is a creative initiative that seeks to actively support and involve the local business community in this global celebration, showcase the diversity of food across Aurora, and unite people through food,” said Ricardo Gambetta, manager of the Office of International and Immigrant Affairs said in a statement.
Local companies are invited to submit a dish, drink or dessert that is globally inspired to the city between now and March 30. In May, the public will be able to visit participating businesses, purchase and taste the featured items and vote for their favorites, according to the statement.
The top three favorites will be recognized at Global Fest, featured on AuroraTV and throughout the city’s media.
“Last year, the top three places were owned by members of the immigrant community, which was a perfect opportunity to recognize our diverse population’s economic and cultural contributions as acknowledged in the city’s Immigrant Integration Plan; we encourage all local food providers to be part of Global Flavors 2025,” Gambetta said.
Last year’s winners included SweetPepper Kitchen with their Jollof Rice, HoneyBee Asian Bistro & Sushi with their signature Flaming Tiger Roll and Ladydee’s Authentic Nigerian Cuisine’s Heritage Red Beef Stew, according to the statement.
To participate in the competition, businesses must be based in Aurora and licensed by the City of Aurora to sell food. They must also be in good standing with all their respective regulatory agencies, according to the statement. Only one application per category is allowed for a total of three different items per business.
Nominations are currently accepted and can be submitted at AuroraGov.org/GlobalFlavors.
In an attempt to catch the broad diversity in Aurora’s food scene, Global Flavors was created as an extension of Global Fest, according to the release.
“Global Flavors is intended to expand upon those offerings to showcase more great restaurants from across the city,” the statement said.
Global Fest is slated for June 14 on the Aurora Municipal Center Great Lawn, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway. To learn more about Global Flavors and Global Fest visit AuroraGlobalFest.org.