With more than 30 restaurants in West Islip, trying them all can be a long and expensive endeavor. Fortunately, The West Islip Chamber, in conjunction with the West Islip Fire Department and several local sponsors, hosted a one-night culinary experience that allowed people to try food from over 20 local establishments.

On the beautiful evening of Tuesday, Oct. 22, families gathered at the West Islip Fire Department to celebrate the community and enjoy a variety of food and beverages from businesses in the area.

Diane Munno, vice president of membership for the West Islip Chamber of Commerce, shared that this tradition has existed for over 10 years. The chamber hosts many events throughout the year, but for this particular event, they charged admission. The money collected at the door allows the chamber to give out four $1,000 scholarships for West Islip High School seniors.

The local restaurants provided all the food for free. Munno praised their generosity: “It’s phenomenal. The vendors inside are the nicest people. Not only do they come and set up and give out food, but they also have donated gift cards. It’s so generous of them to be here.”

Additionally, she thanked the West Islip Fire Department for their support and hospitality. “The firehouse was gracious enough to give us their community room for the evening, which is phenomenal. They’re still working, and we’re all over the place eating some food.”

There was an abundance of different types of cuisine to enjoy. Restaurants that participated included:

• Anthony’s Pizza Pasta
• Bang Bang Burrito
• Brightwaters Inn
• Butera’s Meatballs
• Cafe Europa
• Carvel Ice Cream
• Chiddy’s Cheesesteaks
• Crispino’s
• Farrell’s of Brooklyn
• Francesco’s
• Higbie Bagels
• Hometown Heros
• Henley’s Village Tavern
• Lions Den
• Long River
• Mario’s Pasticceria
• Our Little Italy
• Primi Italian Restaurant
• Sea Levels
• Secatogue Brewing Co.
• Summerwinds Deli
• WI Wine & Liquors