The Taste of Alpharetta

Get ready to indulge in a feast of flavors at the Taste of Alpharetta, one of Georgia’s most anticipated food festivals! This annual event brings together the best restaurants in the area, serving up delicious bites that showcase Alpharetta’s diverse and thriving culinary scene. From savory dishes to sweet treats, live music, and family-friendly fun, the Taste of Alpharetta is a must-visit for food lovers. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this festival is the perfect way to experience the flavors that make Alpharetta a top dining destination.

People in line to sample food.

Why Taste of Alpharetta Is Worth Visiting

Taste of Alpharetta isn’t just another food festival—it’s an opportunity to sample dishes from many of the city’s best restaurants without committing to a full meal at each one. Whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite restaurant or a visitor exploring North Georgia, the festival offers an easy (and delicious) introduction to Alpharetta’s culinary scene.

One of the things I enjoyed most was the variety. From Southern comfort food and barbecue to international cuisine and sweet treats, there was something tempting around nearly every corner.

Taking place in early May of each year, it’s somewhat of a pilgrimage that upwards of 50,000 people are now making.  The family and dog-friendly event takes place in downtown Alpharetta on Milton Avenue, Roswell Street, Canton Street, Old Roswell Street, and Old Canton Street.  The streets are blocked off and it becomes a pedestrian-only zone.

Map of downtown Alpharetta, Georgia.

It’s free to check out all of the different food establishments, but if you want to get a taste, you’ll need to purchase tickets.  Tickets cost 50 cents apiece, with most food costing $1-$3 per sample.

What Will You Find At The Taste of Alpharetta?

Black food truck.

There is a wide assortment of local dishes, covering meals from breakfast to dessert.

Bahn Mi sandwich.
Bánh mì from M Thai Street Food

I had my first bánh mì at the Taste of Alpharetta.  The fresh, crusty bread reminded me of sandwich baguettes that you find in New Orleans, except that it was filled with Thai food.

Chocolate doughnut.
Reese’s doughnut from Scream’n Nuts
Slice of carrot cake.
Carrot Cake from Alpine Bakery
Wedding cake.
Gluten-Free Wedding Cake by 2B Whole Gluten-Free European Bakery
Slices of pecan pie.
Pecan Pie slices by Southern Baked Pie Company
Gluten-free chocolate cupcake.
Gluten-free Chocolate Cupcake by Sally’s Gluten-Free Bakery

Family-Friendly Fun

Taste of Alpharetta isn’t just for serious foodies.

Families will find plenty to enjoy, including live entertainment, music, and enough variety that even picky eaters can usually find something they’ll like. If you’re bringing young children, consider arriving earlier in the day before the largest crowds arrive.

People around a stage.

There is a music stage and plenty of seating for attendees to enjoy the harmonic rock/folk/R&B bands that perform during the event.   There is a separate Culinary Competition Stage that pairs top area chefs against one another in five categories – Best Appetizer/Salad, Best Fast Casual, Best Fine Dining, Best Presentation, and Best Dessert.

For kids, there is an area with inflatables for them to play on.

People in the street sampling food.

Tips For The Taste of Alpharetta

  • Remember that I mentioned that there are a lot of people who attend The Taste of Alpharetta?  It’s a good idea to get there early.  The event starts at 5 pm and lasts until 10 pm.
  • Weather can be unpredictable with Spring showers possibly popping up, so be sure to check the forecast before heading out.
  • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle if it’s a warm day.
  • Put on comfortable shoes.  Though most of the terrain is flat or slightly elevated, you’ll do a lot of walking in order to see all of the different delectable items.
  • Share tastings with family or friends so you can sample more restaurants.
  • You can purchase tickets at the event.
  • Check Awesome Alpharetta for a list of participating restaurants as well as parking locations.  There is a free shuttle service available from select locations.

I was a guest of Awesome Alpharetta. All thoughts, opinions, and grammatical errors are my own.  The pictures are also mine, but the delicious food was made in Alpharetta.  If you are looking for a place to lay your head in Alpharetta, then head over to my posts about The Hotel at Avalon and What To Do In Alpharetta: A Mini Guide.

Final Call

Have you been to Taste of Alpharetta? I’d love to hear which restaurant or dish was your favorite! Leave a comment below and share your must-try recommendation-you might help another visitor decide what to sample first.

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