Donna Hare of Upper Burrell hadn’t visited New Kensington in more than 20 years. But a new food and commerce-themed event held there Saturday changed that.
Hare and five of her friends attended the 2022 Restaurant Ramble & Spring Fling. The group said they all were happy to support local businesses — and check out a “new” New Kensington.
New Kensington Mayor Tom Guzzo said the event was created to spotlight nearly a dozen restaurants on Fourth and Fifth avenues and all of the small businesses in New Kensington. It began at 11 a.m. and lasted until about 3 p.m.
“This is an opportunity for folks from everywhere to come down and try some great food. The Ramble celebrates our restaurants that have opened in our current revitalization,” Guzzo said.
Hare’s friend, Patty Twidwell of Upper Burrell, said she had two favorites: the catfish from SoCal Mexicali Grill, which opened last month; and the Kibbee, a Syrian speciality, from Eazer’s Restaurant & Deli, a well-established place across the street along Fifth Avenue.
“We’ve lived here our whole lives, so we want to support the local businesses. The food was great,” Twidwell said.
For Hare, visiting downtown New Kensington again left her impressed. “I love the neighborhood vibe here,” she said.
Participants paid $30 each for a ticket that included a wristband, map and access to special food and drink pairings available at each participating restaurant.
Voodoo Brewery offered a beef Wellington puffed pastry and a panetta goat cheese crustini, paired with beer.
The self-paced and guided “ramble” allowed participants to visit each business on their own schedule.
SoCal Mexicali Grill owner Sean Watson, who served more than 200 Cajun catfish tacos by 1 p.m., said the event was well-received.
“It’s wonderful and provides good exposure for us,” said Watson, who opened his Southern California-themed eatery at 700 Fifth Ave., the former site of Tommy Chen’s China Bistro.
Mary Beth Lucas, 72, of New Kensington noshed on homemade hummus, catfish, stuffed breads and more. Lucas said organizers should consider offering the event every three months. “I’m enjoying my day,” Lucas said.
Alexis and Joe Nixon of Lower Burrell chose to attend for what they call their “date day.”
“We wanted to check out the local venues,” said Alexis Nixon, who grew up in New Kensington. “Everyone has been so welcoming and nice.”
The couple said they enjoyed the baklava and coffee from Sweet Tillies, which opened in late 2020 to specialize in baklava, the layered pastry.
Guzzo said Eazer’s, in business for more than 100 years, is just one example of all of the great things happening in downtown New Kensington.
“This is an all-around tremendous event,” Guzzo said.
