Taste of Sullivan Returns to Spotlight Local Restaurants and Fight Hunger

Food, community, and a chance to help neighbors in need are coming together next week in Sullivan County as the Rotary Clubs of Monticello and Liberty bring back Taste of Sullivan, their annual culinary fundraiser.

Set for Tuesday, April 14, at the SUNY Sullivan Paul Gerry Field House, the event runs from 6 to 8 p.m. and features more than 20 local restaurants serving up a variety of dishes. Attendees also can enjoy live music sponsored by the STEAM Fund and beer tastings for those 21 and older.

Taste of Sullivan began as an initiative of the Monticello Rotary Club and officially returned three years ago after a COVID-related hiatus. Last year’s event raised approximately $7,000, and organizers say this year promises to be even bigger.

“Every dime of your $40 ticket will go towards the food that we’re going to give out,” said Les Kristt, one of the event organizers. “So you’ll not only have a great time and enjoy great food, but you’ll also be providing meals for those who can’t afford it.”

The event benefits the Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless and other organizations addressing food insecurity. Proceeds help provide meals to residents who rely on local food programs, organizers said.

The collaboration between the two Rotary clubs is notable in the organization’s world, where club partnerships are less common. “It gives the opportunity for more people to provide service,” said Judy Siegel, co-organizer. “Rotary is all about service above self, and this event is a perfect example of that.”

Students from SUNY Sullivan’s culinary program are also taking part, both serving guests and connecting with local restaurants, which has led to employment opportunities for participants in past years. “It’s a win-win-win for everybody,” Siegel said.

Tickets are $40 per person and can be purchased through the Liberty Rotary website or the clubs’ Facebook pages. For more information, call Siegel at 845-798-0783.

Image: SUNY Sullivan Culinary Program students at Taste of Sullivan in 2025. (Rotatry Club of Monticello)