Monday, Mar. 30th, 2015
by Jordan Okumura
www.AndNowUKnow.com
AUSTIN, TX – The much anticipated Viva Fresh Produce Exposition happened last week in Austin, Texas, and we were fortunate enough to have a front row seat to a regional produce event that offered great opportunities for networking, team building, and, of course, plenty of fun!
High profile buyers and grower/shippers from throughout Texas, Mexico, and neighboring Southwest U.S. states converged in Austin to taste the range of diverse and local food offerings, wander down sixth street to the tunes of live music, meet old friends, and make new ones.
The opening reception was set to the rhythm of the Cody Bryan Band as three chefs from the Texas International Produce Associations’ home base in McAllen showcased their signature dishes. Spork Restaurant Owners Adam Cavazos and Jesse Castellon, and owner of the restaurants House. Wine. & Bistro and SALT Larry Delgado served a range of menu items from food trucks.
The show floor itself hosted an intimate, exciting atmosphere of buyers, growers, packers, and shippers who packed the event all the way through happy hour.
Also on the menu was the the 19th Hole Celebration held at the Grey Rock Biergarten with live music by Charlie Gore, along with games, drinks, 7 Leguas Tequila samples and heavy hors d’oeuvres.
“I was really pleased with the attendance from all aspects of industry that were invited,” Jimmy Bassetti, President of J & D Produce, Inc. told us. “It was an intimate social event from all sides of the industry, and I’d like to thank all the folks that came out.”
With over 700 in attendance, the hall and hotel where Viva Fresh took place were completely sold out.