Savory and delicious samples from many of the area’s most popular restaurants impressed the crowd at the Women of Seven Lakes’ recent “Taste of the Town” held at the Westside Park Community Center.

The sold-out ticketed event raised $5,000 for the West End UMC Food Pantry, and a wine-tasting event featuring Sandhills Winery, raised an additional $600 that will be used to assist other local charities.

“This event is possible only through the generous sponsorship of area restaurants and specialty shops,” says a spokesman.

Participants included Broad Street Bakery, Corfu Taverna, Cold Stone Creamery, Dog Nation Grill, Fresh Market, Goldie’s Gourmet, Harris Teeter, Lady Bedford’s Tea Parlour, Little River Farm Golf and Resort, Lula’s, Magnolia’s, Nina’s, Olive Garden, Outback Steakhouse, Panera Bread, Penick Village Restaurant, Rhett’s Personal Chef and Catering, Sandhills Winery, Seven Lakes Country Club, Seven Lakes Pizza Kitchen, Seven Lakes Snack Shack, Starbucks, Table on the Green and Thai Basil.

In addition, raffle gift certificates were received from The Bakehouse, Beacon Ridge Golf and Country Club, Bistro Café, Casa Garcia, Chili’s, Ironwood Café, Italian Table, Jack’s Place, Little Caesars, Lone Star Steakhouse, Lowe’s Food, McDonald’s, Mac’s Breakfast Restaurant, Nina’s Classic Cuisine, Nature’s Own-195 Fusion, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Olive Garden, The Tavern at Holly Inn, San Felipe, Sandhills Woman’s Exchange, Squire’s Pub, Sweet Basil, Tripps and Wolcott’s

The Women of Seven Lakes is a civic organization dedicated to philanthropy and fun through monthly meetings, special events and various clubs, including social crafters and an active bridge group. This year marks the organization’s 30th year of service to the community.