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PRESS & MEDIA

Winners Announced from the 2019 Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge

9/3/2019

 
Signature summer culinary event helps raise proceeds for the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance and the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona
The Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance’s final culinary event of the summer brought in over a thousand attendees to indulge in the best salsa, tequila & tacos that Southern Arizona has to offer. The 9th Annual Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge featured food and drink samples from 42 local restaurants, breweries and distilleries all competing for the ultimate Judges' and People’s Choice titles in multiple categories.

As attendees enjoyed everything from green apple boba mojitos to seared short rib tacos, this signature culinary fundraiser helped to raise proceeds for the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance’s creative community arts programming, as well as the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona’s efforts to end hunger.

A beautifully choreographed performance from Ballet Folkorico La Paloma kicked off the event, Santa Pachita took the main stage throughout the night, keeping the dance floor moving despite a little bit of rain, while the Troy Gray Duo brought a bit flamenco guitar flair to the Citrus Courtyard.

Judges and attendees cast their votes throughout the night for their favorite bites and sips. The competition was tight with many restaurants pulling ahead by only a handful of votes.
 
The judges panel contributed their foodie expertise to select the outstanding winners. The panel included: 

Michael McDonald – Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona, Executive Director
Beth Frantz – Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona, CFO
Adam Lehrman – Tucson Foodie, Founder
Francisco Castro – Arizona Bilingual, Mariachi Herradura de Tucson, Music Director
Miguel Heredia – Lodge on the Desert, Executive Chef
Enrique Gómez – Consulate of Mexico in Tucson, Head of Mission
Mat Cable – Fresco Pizzeria & Pastaria, Owner & Executive Chef
CJ Hamm – Saguaro Corners, Executive Chef
Ken Foy – Dante’s Fire & Culinary Graduate Food Truck, Owner & Executive Chef

2019 Salsa, Tequila & Taco Winners:  

Salsa:
  • Judges' Choice 1st Place Traditional Salsa – Casino Del Sol – Salsa Molcajete
  • Judges' Choice 2nd Place Traditional Salsa – Peppersauce Kitchen – Roasted Pepper Salsa
  • Judges' Choice 1st Place Alternative Salsa – The Gallery Golf Club – Pepita Salsa
  • Judges' Choice 2nd Place Alternative Salsa – Café Botanica – Smoked Nopal Salsa w/Lemon
  • People’s Choice 1st Place Salsa – Santiago Mexican – Salsa Santiago
  • People’s Choice 2nd Place Salsa – Café á la Cárt – Roasted Salsa Negra
  • People’s Choice 3rd Place Salsa – Americano Mexicano – House Chunky Red

Tequila:
  • Judges' Choice 1st Place Tequila Cocktail – Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort – Mojito Margarita
  • Judges' Choice 2nd Place Tequila Cocktail - Ritz Carlton Dove Mountain – The Copperhead
  • Judges' Choice Reserve Tequila – Roger Clyne Mexican Moonshine – Tequila Reposado
  • People’s Choice 1st Place Tequila Cocktail – Benson City Grille – Cilantro Jalapeno Lime Margarita
  • People’s Choice 2nd Place Tequila Cocktail – The Lodge at Ventana Canyon – Mango Tamarind Tequila

Taco:
  • Judges' Choice 1st Place Taco – Peppersauce Kitchen – Garlic Chicken and Arugula Taco
  • Judges' Choice 2nd Place Taco – Santiago's Mexican – Seared Short Rib Taco
  • People's Choice 1st Place Taco – Santiago's Mexican – Seared Short Rib Taco
  • People's Choice 2nd Place Taco – Peppersauce Kitchen – Garlic Chicken and Arugula Taco


2019 Southern Arizona Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge 
When: Sunday, September 1, 2019 at 7:00pm. 
Where: La Encantada Shopping Center, northwest corner of Skyline Drive and Campbell 
Online: https://www.saaca.org/salsatequilataco.html
Phone: (520) 797-3959 
 
NOTE TO MEDIA: Photos available 

Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance
The Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance (SAACA) is a not-for-profit organization that exists to promote engagement in arts and culture, helping our communities produce strong, inspired citizens. SAACA enlists artists, businesses, governments, and individuals to expand artistic and cultural opportunities in their respective communities. To enhance access to the arts and to promote cultural awareness in the communities it serves, SAACA presents large-scale festivals, events and other programs. The Alliance also promotes educational opportunities in the arts and culture for all ages.

Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona
The Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona responds to the root causes of hunger and seeks to restore dignity, health, opportunity and hope to people living in poverty. Our mission is to change lives in the communities we serve by feeding the hungry today, and building a healthy, hunger-free tomorrow. The Community Food Bank is a proud member of Feeding America, a nation-wide network of food banks and hunger relief organizations.

Menus & Competitors Announced for 9th Annual Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge

8/22/2019

 
New and returning restaurants will vie for the title of best Salsa, Tequila & Taco in Southern Arizona this Labor Day Weekend
The definitive competition to discover Southern Arizona's new reigning culinary champions of salsa, tequila and tacos returns this Labor Day Weekend to La Encantada Shopping Center. The 9th Annual Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge invites guests to sample unique culinary creations from over 40 of Southern Arizona's top restaurants, breweries and distilleries, then cast their votes for their new favorite 2019 champions.

This event celebrates the diversity of Southern Arizona's growing culinary community. Proceeds from the event will support the Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance's creative community arts programming as well as the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona's efforts to end hunger.

The 9th Annual event features an array of new competitors including Benson City Grill, Proof Artisanal Pizza & Pasta, Peppersauce Kitchen, Daniela's Cooking, and more. Winners from previous years will also be returning including Angie's Kick Ass Salsa,
Quail Creek Country Club and the Ritz Carlton Dove Mountain. Guests will be able to cast their votes throughout the night to help crown the new 2019 People's Choice winners in the categories of Salsa, Tequila and Taco. A team of distinguished local guest judges will also be casting their votes onsite.

Live entertainment will keep guests singing and dancing throughout the night. Performances include Folklorico Dancing from Ballet Folklorico, Latin Fusion Music from Santa Pachita on the main stage, and the charismatic Flamenco group Troy Gray Duo.

Tickets for the 9th Annual Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge are on sale now. Admission Tickets are available for $55 or enjoy early access at 6PM with a V.I.P. Admission Ticket for only $85 and enjoy valet parking, a tequila toast and a commemorative shot glass. Both ticket levels grant access to all of the participating restaurants and libations.

2019 Participating Restaurants & Menus:

3 Amigos Tequila       
Cucumber Jicama Tequila Cocktail- Tequila, lime, lemon, cucumber, jicama, cane sugar
Ramona's Reserve- Tequila Liqueur Straight Tasting
 
Americano Mexicano
Menu TBA
 
Angie's Gourmet To Go
Angie's Gourmet Amazing Hot Salsa- This fire roasted tomato salsa will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more!
 
Angie's Kick Ass Salsa
Classic Hot Salsa- Made with over 20 fresh ingredients. Very highly recieved for its fresh and complex flavor.
Kick Ass Tomatillo Hot Salsa- This is a flavor explosion, but stays on the green side of the spectrum. Uses over 20 fresh ingredients. 
 
Barrio Brewing
Barrio Blonde, Rojo & Citrazona
 
Benson City Grill
Cilantro, Jalapeno, Lime Margarita- People’s Choice 1st Place Winner at the 2019 World Margarita Championship! Cucumber and jalapeno muddled with fresh lime and a Tajin rim.
 
Blanco Tacos + Tequila
Traditional Salsa
Signature Taco
 
Cafe a la C'Art
The Art of Salsa- Roasted and Smoked Vegetable Salsa
 
Café Botanica
Smoked Nopal Salsa with Preserved Lemon- Smoked Nopales, Preserved Meyer Lemons, Fresh Cilantro & Pickled Onion
Al Pastor- Truly a farm to table taco with native corn masa "tortitas", E&R Pork on the spit, Merchants' Garden red choy, Sonoran Ranch queso fresco with our fresh made Nopal Salsa
 
Calle Tepa
Menu TBA
 
Casino Del Sol
Salsa Molcajete- A traditional charred salsa
Tomatillo Cruda- A fresh tomatillo cruda salsa                  
Chef Didn't Tell Me To Name This- Refreshing grapefruit and tequila cocktail
Forbes' Traveling Taco- Sonoran hot dog traveling taco featuring Forbes Meat Co. hot dogs
 
Daniela's Cooking
Daniela's Salsa- Traditional salsa with a little kick to it.
 
Dos XX
Dos XX and Tecate
 
El Coronado Family Restaurant
Menu TBA
 
Estrella Jalisco
Estrella Jalisco Beer
 
Fermentented Tea Company Kombucha
Prickly Pear Kombucha and New Dragon Fruit Kombucha
 
Four Peaks Brewing Company
Lima Spiked Limeade, Golden Lager, Xerocole IPA
 
Jarritos and Mineragua
A variety of Jarritos flavors and Mineragua- non-alcoholic beverages
 
Jugo Fuerte Spiked Agua Frescas
Jugo Fuerte Pepino & Jugo Fuerte Sandia
 
La Cumbre Brewing Co.
4 La Cumbre Beers
 
La Estrella Bakery
Mexican Pastries- handed out to take home
 
New Belgium Brewing Company
Mural, an agua fresca ale
 
Peppersauce Kitchen
Roasted Pepper Salsa- Roasted serrano and jalapeno
Sweet Pepper Rib-Eye Taco- Top shelf rib-eye with sweet pepper pico and cheeses on a grilled corn tortilla and fire roasted salsa
 
Pima Community College Hospitality Leadership
Salsa Casera- Home-style salsa like Nana made
Salsa Azteca- A robust Aztec influenced salsa with a hint of cocoa       
Drowning Taco (Tacos Ahogados)- A perfectly seasoned combination of shredded beef, pork and thin sliced potato crispy taco. Served with natural juice broth and topped with lettuce, tomato, carrots, cucumber, radishes, avocado, marinated red onion and cotija cheese.
 
[POPPED] Artisan Popcorn
Artisan Popcorn and Pretzels
 
Proof Artisanal Pizza & Pasta
Mambo Italiano- Pineapple & basil salsa
Smokey Tiki Spritz- Smokey pineapple mezcal cocktail
 
Pure Love Juice
Agua Frescas
 
Queen Ceviche
Rhubiscus Margarita- Organic Hibiscus Syrup, Roger Clyne's Mexican Moonshine Blanco Tequila, chile rim
 
Reforma Modern Mexican. Mezcal + Tequila
Salsa Verde- Roasted tomatillo and poblano salsa
The Arrogant Salsa- It'll hit you where it hurts!                 
Blueberry Basil Margarita- 100% Blue Weber Agave Tequila, lime juice, triple sec, house made blueberry and basil puree, served on the rocks with a sugar rim
 
Rigo's Restaurant
El Camalion (The Chameleon)- Roasted guajillo, onions, garlic, cilantro, and bacon
Salsa Guacamole- Avocado blended with cilantro, salt and roasted New Mexico peppers and serranos     
Tequila Jello Shots- Granadine and tequila
Arriba, al Centro Y pa' Dentro- Silver Tequila Tasting
Tacos de Cazuelas- Quesatacos- Tortilla with oxaca cheese and choice of meat bistec, or birria. Vegetarian option- cheese and guacamole salsa
 
Ritz Carlton Dove Mountain
Cowboy Salsa- Signature salsa
Sweet Taco- Sweeter side of tacos
 
Roger Clyne's Mexican Moonshine Tequila 
Culinary Tequila Tasting Experience- Un-oaked Silver is paired with fresh salted mango, then buttery Reposado is joined by a bite of aged sharp cheddar and finish with velvety Añejo paired with orange infused dark chocolate
 
Salsa de Lazo
Salsa de Lazo Hot Sauce- Firey, local hot sauce made with fresh ingredients
 
Royal Catering
Fire Roasted Red Salsa- Tomatoes, onions and chilies cooked over mesquite
Asian Pico De Gallo- Far East Meets Sonora. Diced daikon, chilies, ginger, cilantro and lime         
 
San Carlos Grill
San Carlos Salsa- A flavorsome blend of tomatoes, onions, cilantro with a extra kick of spice
 
Santiago's Mexican
Salsa Santiago- Blends of the best fire roasted tomatoes, onions and traditional Mexican spices (Hot)
Seared Short Rib Taco- Braised beef short rib with roasted corn, lime, cilantro, cabbage, Salsa Yucatan and cotija cheese
 
Savaya Coffee Market
Organic, fresh, life-giving cold brew and iced tea
 
Sierra Nevada
Sierra Nevada Beer
 
The Gallery Golf Club
Pepita Salsa- Earthy and textured salsa with herbs and crunch from roasted pumpkin seeds
Salsa Taquera- The one you need on all the tacos              
Cumber Paloma- Muddled cucumber, tequila blanco & salty sweet rim
Taco Poblano- Potato, roasted corn and poblano pepper rajas
 
Quail Creek Country Club
QC Salsa Taquera Chile de Arbol- Chile de Arbol, smoked tomatoes
Charred Pineapple and Mango Salsa- Charred pineapple, ginger and mango salsa
Jalapeno Margarita- Jalapeno infused sweet and sour, tequila and black salt
Adobada Taco- Pork adobada taco with avocado cream and chile de arbol salsa
 
The Living Room at La Encantada
Chiliaquiles- A mini toastada chip with salsa verde, chicken, creme fraiche and cilantro
 
The Lodge at Ventana Canyon
Tequila Cocktail and Featured Taco
 
Tubac Salsa, Co
South Of The Border Roasted Chile Garlic Salsa- Hot- Roasted chile pepper traditional salsa with a kick of spices
Tangy Avocado Ghost Pepper Salsa- Unique flavors of fresh avocado, lime and cilantro with a nice kick of ghost pepper      
 
Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort & Spa
Mojito Margarita- Green apple boba, Resort-grown mint and Thai basil
Tuna Taco- Avocado crema, Arizona lime bubbles, fresh cilantro & shaved serrano peppers
 
YWCA Tucson
Dragon's Breath- Roasted pineapple with Thai basil and Thai chili
Corazon Salsa Verde- Tomatillo, poblano, anaheim peppers and cilantro


9th Annual Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge
When: Sunday, September 1, 2019 - 6 PM (VIP Admission) / 7 PM (General Admission)
Where: La Encantada Shopping Center - 2905 E Skyline Dr, Tucson, AZ 85718
Tickets: $55 General Admission - $85 VIP Admission (Must be 21+ and have valid ID for entry)
Online: https://www.saaca.org/salsatequilataco.html
Phone: (520) 797-3959 x 107
 
NOTE TO MEDIA: Photos available upon request

Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance
The Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance (SAACA) is a not-for-profit organization that exists to promote engagement in arts and culture, helping our communities produce strong, inspired citizens. SAACA enlists artists, businesses, governments, and individuals to expand artistic and cultural opportunities in their respective communities. To enhance access to the arts and to promote cultural awareness in the communities it serves, SAACA presents large-scale festivals, events and other programs. The Alliance also promotes educational opportunities in the arts and culture for all ages.

Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona
The Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona responds to the root causes of hunger and seeks to restore dignity, health, opportunity and hope to people living in poverty. Our mission is to change lives in the communities we serve by feeding the hungry today, and building a healthy, hunger-free tomorrow. The Community Food Bank is a proud member of Feeding America, a nation-wide network of food banks and hunger relief organizations.

9th Annual Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge Returns to Southern Arizona on Labor Day Weekend

8/13/2019

 
Attendees and Judges will Cast Votes for their Favorite Salsa, Tequila & Taco in Tucson
Labor Day Weekend will set the stage for Southern Arizona's hottest largest culinary competitions as the 9th Annual Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge returns to La Encantada Shopping Center. On Sunday, September 1, over 40 of the regions most esteemed restaurants will battle for the title of best salsa, tequila and taco in Southern Arizona, as attendees and local guest judges cast their votes for their favorite bites and sips.

The 9th Annual event will welcome in over 1,000 attendees to the charming and spacious La Encantada Shopping Center to the heart of North Tucson. From tequila boba cocktails to smoked lamb tacos, attendees can expect a truly original collection of culinary samples throughout the night. Live musical and dance performances will add a cultural flair to the night with an assortment of ballet folklorico, Latin acoustic guitar, and salsa and cumbia music on the main stage to get you up and dancing. Art installations and live painting will accent the evening.

This event celebrates the diversity of Southern Arizona's growing culinary community. Proceeds from the event will support the Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance's creative community arts programming as well as the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona's efforts to end hunger.

"81% of the Community Food Bank budget is supplied through donations which enable us to provide nearly 200,000 individuals with emergency food assistance throughout the year," said Michael McDonald, Chief Executive Officer of the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona. "This event is an opportunity to build awareness and support for theincredible work that is being done in our region."

Tickets for the 9th Annual Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge are on sale now. V.I.P. Admission Tickets are available for $85 and include 1 hour of early access to the event at 6 PM, as well as valet parking, a tequila toast and a commemorative shot glass. General Admission Tickets are also available for $55. Both ticket levels grant access to all of the participating restaurants and libations.

New participating restaurants & exhibitors are being added daily. Current participants include:
  • 3 Amigos Tequila
  • Angie's Gourmet To Go
  • Angie’s Kick Ass Salsa
  • Barrio Brewing
  • Benson City Grill
  • Cafe a la C'Art
  • Café Botanica
  • Calle Tepa
  • Casino Del Sol
  • Daniela's Cooking
  • Dos Equis
  • El Coronado Family Restaurant
  • Estrella Jalisco
  • Fermented Tea Company Kombucha
  • Four Peaks Brewing Co.
  • Jarritos
  • Jugo Fuerte- Spiked Agua Frescas
  • New Belgium Brewing Company
  • [POPPED] Artisan Popcorn
  • PRP Wine International
  • Pure Love Juice
  • Queen Ceviche
  • Reforma Modern Mexican Mezcal + Tequila
  • Rigo's Restaurant
  • Ritz Carlton Dove Mountain
  • Royal Catering
  • Santiago's Mexican
  • Savaya Coffee Market
  • Sierra Nevada
  • The Gallery Golf Club
  • The Grill at Quail Creek
  • The Living Room
  • The Lodge at Ventana Canyon
  • Tubac Salsa Co.
  • Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort & Spa
  • YWCA Tucson


 
9th Annual Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge
When: Sunday, September 1, 2019 - 6 PM (VIP Admission) / 7 PM (General Admission)
Where: La Encantada Shopping Center - 2905 E Skyline Dr, Tucson, AZ 85718
Tickets: $55 General Admission - $85 VIP Admission (Must be 21+ and have valid ID for entry)
Online: https://www.saaca.org/salsatequilataco.html
Phone: (520) 797-3959 x 107
 
NOTE TO MEDIA: Photos available upon request
Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance
The Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance (SAACA) is a not-for-profit organization that exists to promote engagement in arts and culture, helping our communities produce strong, inspired citizens. SAACA enlists artists, businesses, governments, and individuals to expand artistic and cultural opportunities in their respective communities. To enhance access to the arts and to promote cultural awareness in the communities it serves, SAACA presents large-scale festivals, events and other programs. The Alliance also promotes educational opportunities in the arts and culture for all ages.

Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona
The Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona responds to the root causes of hunger and seeks to restore dignity, health, opportunity and hope to people living in poverty. Our mission is to change lives in the communities we serve by feeding the hungry today, and building a healthy, hunger-free tomorrow. The Community Food Bank is a proud member of Feeding America, a nation-wide network of food banks and hunger relief organizations.

2018 Southern Arizona Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge Winners Announced

9/5/2018

 
Outstanding food and drink were served while raising money for needed community programs in Southern Arizona. 
The rain this past Sunday evening did not chase the fun away. The 8th annual Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge once again wowed attendees with amazing flavors and inventive culinary creations, while the band kept the crowds dancing late into the evening.

With more than 1,000 attendees, 38 participating restaurants, chefs, brewers and distillers and nearly 70 recipes judged, the Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge brought a rainbow of Southwest inspired dishes and spirits to the La Encantada Shopping Center.

As attendees enjoyed the appetizing offerings of some of Tucson’s best restaurants, this signature culinary fundraiser raised much needed funds for nonprofit, the Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance, as well as support for the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona.

Over 70 entries were evaluated, contributing in both special judged and People’s Choice categories. Selecting a favorite was particularly difficult among each of the brilliant contributions of savory and sweet delights.

The sounds of Mariachi Herradura and duo, Cool Breeze set the festive tone by opening the evening on a high note, while the headlining performance by Zona Libra kept the party going.

The judges panel contributed their foodie expertise to select the outstanding winners on Sunday night. The panel included:

Special thanks can be provided to each of our contributing professional judging panel.

Sandra Cannett - Fat Tucson Owner & Content Creator

Andi Berlin - Arizona Daily Star Writer & Digital Media

Mark Whittaker - Tucson Weekly, Chow Food Writer

Melissa Stihl - Tucson Foodie, Writer

Michael McDonald - President, Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona

Lea Peterson - President Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Laura Oldaker - Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Ricardo Pineda - Mexican Consulate

Blanca Ramirez - Traditional Mexican Chef

Chef Ariana Olivias - Chef Chic

Natalie Morris - Local First Arizona Director of Food Initiatives

Chef Mat Cable - Fresco Pasta & Pizzeria & Tucson Originals

Kim Fernandez - SAACA Board of Director

Celestino Fernandez - University of Arizona

And the winners are:

Taco Awards

Judge's Choice 1st Place -- Tequila Factory – Tecate Traveling Taco

Judge's Choice 2nd Place – The Living Room -- Chilaquiles

People's Choice 1st Place -- El Coronado Restaurant - Birria Taco

People's Choice 2nd Place -- The Grill at Quail Creek - Pork Belly Taco

Tequila Awards

Judge's Choice 1st Place – Cruz Del Sol Tequila -- Cruz Resposado Tequila

Judge's Choice 2nd Place -- 3 Amigos – 8 Year Extra Anejo Tequila

People's Choice 1st Place – The Lodge at Ventana Canyon -- Berry White

People's Choice 2nd Place -- 3 Amigos – 8 Year Extra Anejo Tequila

Salsa Awards

Judge's Choice Traditional Salsa 1st Place -- Crossroads Restaurant -- Tomatillo Salsa

Judge's Choice Traditional Salsa 2nd Place— The Grill at Quail Creek – Brasas Salsa

Judge's Choice Alternative Salsa 1st Place -- Ritz Carlton at Dove Mountain -- Sweet Mango Chile Salsa

Judge's Choice Alternative Salsa 2nd Place -- The Tequila Factory -- Fruit Pico de Gallo Salsa

People's Choice Salsa 1st Place -- Angie's Kick Ass Salsa -- Hot Salsa

People's Choice Salsa 2nd Place -- Ritz Carlton at Dove Mountain -- Sweet Mango Chile Salsa

People's Choice Salsa 3rd Place -- Angie's Gourmet To Go - Fire Roasted Tomato Mango Habanero Salsa

Display Award

Judge's Choice Most Creative Display -- Rigo's Restaurant

The Southern Arizona Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge is a fundraising event to benefit the presenting nonprofit organizations. All proceeds that are raised through ticket sales are invested into programs that provide foundational support to the communities' well-being.

The partnership between the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance and the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona began nearly nine years ago in a collaborative fundraising effort aimed at partnering to create a signature community event.

The Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge also promotes local businesses in a lively environment by connecting attendees with local restaurants. Guests will have access to taste samples from many restaurants in one location while personally interacting with the chefs and mixologists that create the recipes they are tasting. At the end of the evening, awards will be presented to the event champions in over 15 categories.

NOTE TO MEDIA: Photos available

Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance
The Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance (SAACA) is a not-for-profit organization that exists to ensure that, through engagement in arts and culture, our communities produce strong, inspired citizens. SAACA enlists artists, businesses, governments, and individuals to expand artistic and cultural opportunities in their respective communities. To enhance access to the arts and to promote cultural awareness in the communities it serves, SAACA presents large-scale festivals, events and other programs. The Alliance also promotes educational opportunities in the arts and culture for all ages.

8th Annual Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge Returns Labor Day Weekend to Southern Arizona

8/22/2018

 
Local restaurants compete, and over 1,200 attendees will vote for the best taco, tequila and salsa over Labor Day weekend at La Encantada Shopping Center
Mark your calendars for Sunday, September 2nd as the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance (SAACA) proudly partners with the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona to present the 8th Annual Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge at La Encantada Shopping Center. Over 40 of the region's finest restaurants will compete for the title of best taco, best tequila cocktail, and best salsa, with attendees weighing in on their favorite tastes of the evening.

This year, a new VIP ticketing option will be available, and will include a one-hour early entry to the event at 6:00 PM, valet parking, a tequila toast compliments of Three Wells Distilling and commemorative shot glass plus all general admission access. The early entry will provide a more intimate setting to interact with restaurants, chefs and mixologists, with only 300 VIP tickets available.

The event is a vibrant celebration of the creative community of Southern Arizona and will highlight the rich and diverse culture that make our region unique. In addition to food and drink tastings, there will be live arts experiences throughout the evening, on stage and throughout the event. Music and dancing from a variety of performers will include Ballet Folklorico Tapatio, Mariachi Herradura, Cool Breeze and Zona Libre. Local artists and live painters will also showcase their work at the celebration.

COMMUNITY IMPACT

The Southern Arizona Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge is a fundraising event to benefit the presenting nonprofit organizations. All proceeds that are raised through ticket sales are invested into programs that provide foundational support to the communities' well-being.

"81% of the Community Food Bank budget is supplied through donations which enable us to provide nearly 200,000 individuals with emergency food assistance throughout the year," said Michael McDonald, Chief Executive Officer of the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona. "This event is an opportunity to build awareness and support for the incredible work that is being done in our region."

"The core of SAACA's work is centered around building stronger and healthier communities through a variety of arts-based programming, including groundbreaking arts therapy and education programs and dynamic community engagements like the Salsa, Tequila and Taco Challenge," said SAACA Executive Director, Kate Marquez. "This event is an expression and celebration of everything that is unique and creative about where we live, while also raising funds for much needed programs and services. " The partnership between the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance and the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona began nearly 9 years ago in a collaborative fundraising effort, aimed at partnering to create a signature community event.

The partnership between the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance and the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona began nearly nine years ago in a collaborative fundraising effort aimed at partnering to create a signature community event.

The Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge also promotes local businesses in a lively environment by connecting attendees with local restaurants. Guests will have access to taste samples from many restaurants in one location while personally interacting with the chefs and mixologists that create the recipes they are tasting. At the end of the evening, awards will be presented to the event champions in over 15 categories.

Tortilla chips that are provided to all guests at ticketing are being graciously donated by Guadalajara Grill, and the tequila toast during the VIP hour is courtesy of donation by Three Wells Distilling Company.

Tickets are on sale now at www.SAACA.org.

2018 Southern Arizona Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge
When: Sunday Sept. 3 at 7:00 p.m.
Where: La Encantada Shopping Center, northwest corner of Skyline Dr and Campbell Ave
Cost: VIP - $100, General Admission - $60 (21+ Event)
Online: www.SAACA.org
Phone: (520) 797-3959 x 105
About Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance
The Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance (SAACA) is a not-for-profit organization that exists to ensure that, through engagement in arts and culture, our communities produce strong, inspired citizens. SAACA enlists artists, businesses, governments, and individuals to expand artistic and cultural opportunities in their respective communities. To enhance access to the arts and to promote cultural awareness in the communities it serves, SAACA presents large-scale festivals, events and other programs. The Alliance also promotes educational opportunities in the arts and culture for all ages.
 
For more information about programs and events produced by the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance, go to www.SAACA.org.
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The Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance (SAACA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the creation, preservation and advancement of the Arts. SAACA strengthens the bonds between people, place and purpose through collaborative, arts-driven experiences.
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