Imagine Rodman's purchased an empty planet and filled it with everyone who made, packaged, distributed and sold the international gourmet foods, beverages and accessories they offer. Add cooking demonstrations by well-known chefs, 30 languages spoken all at once, and more samples of cheese and chocolate and gelato you can dream of.
(Photo by: Judith Beermann)
Welcome to the Summer Fancy Food Show at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Normally in New York at the Jacob Javits Center, but here this year while they renovate. It's put on by the National Association for the Specialty Food Trade, Inc. (NASFT) and they've been doing this since 1952. Their shows have helped launch household brands including Ben & Jerry's, Perrier and Walker's Shortbread.
Truly overwhelming (2,250 exhibiting companies) but lots of fun. Here's my take away after three hours:
1. The rest of the world really does love soccer.
(Photo by: Judith Beermann)
Somewhere between the aisles of Germany and Italy
2. Himalayan pink salt is not only pretty but better for you.
(Photo by: Judith Beermann)
Amelia Bonanni of HimalaSalt, 250 million year old pure salt
3. Belgians really do make the best chocolate.
(Photo by: chocolateque.com)
Frederic Blondeel Belgian truffles
4. Good packaging matters.
(Photo by: Eliunt)
Monte Ida olive oil from Ayvalyk, Turkey
Many familiar brands like Rao's pasta sauces and Bahlsen cookies, and clever new products already on the shelf like Corkcicle, the icicle that goes inside your wine bottle.
(Photo by: Judith Beermann)
Mike Hamburger from Bahlsen
(Photo by: Judith Beermann)
Eric Miller from Corkcicle
(Photo by: Judith Beermann)
Sometimes costumes help draw attention to the product
(Photo by: Judith Beermann)
Vivianna Martinez-Gonzalez of Eliunt, the beautifully packaged international collection of olive oils
(Photo by: Judith Beermann)
Japanese fish cakes
(Photo by: Judith Beermann)
Serendipity 3 Frrrozen Hot Chocolate
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