The SPARK Imagination and Science Center hosted its second West Virginia Bites & Brews on Saturday, April 22.

The event, which brings together food trucks, breweries and coffee vendors, benefits Spark! Imagination and Science Center, a 501(c)(3) organization which inspires people of all ages to explore science and the arts through hands-on exhibits and programs that spark a lifelong love of learning. In addition to the food & drink, there was also music, raffles and silent auctions.

Tickets were $40 for beer & food (but if you bought early in advance, it was jut $35), and you got a card that gave you samples for four food trucks, three desserts, two coffee stations, eight breweries and one meadery. Then, you took your mug and card around to try all the different places. If you want more than a sample, the food vendors had larger meals available for purchase. And, you could purchase a ticket for a full glass of beer or honey wine for $5. After trying everyone, you took your three chips and voted for best food, dessert and craft beer.

FOOD:


Pyles Of Pasta: Gorgonzola Fettuccine Alfredo with steak and balsamic glaze


Bar-B-Qed Beast: Smoked Brisket Slider with chipotle mustard butter and tobacco onion and Korean style BBQ Pork on top of Sticky Rice with a plum relish


Taziki's Mediterranean Cafe: Signature Pasta - a bed of mixed lettuces with penne pasta and grilled chicken, tossed in a homemade balsamic vinaigrette, topped with tomatoes, feta, and fresh basil


Menas's Mobile Foods: Pepperoni rolls

That pasta dish from Pyles made me fall in love. It was the first thing we tried, and it remained my favorite throughout the event. I love the creamy, slightly tangy, with the balsamic glaze. I tried to go back an purchase a full size of this, but was denied because they were running out. I was, however, promised it will become part of their menu selections. The slider from Bar-B-Qed Beast was also very good, and it was a close second favorite.

DESSERT:



Rosalind Candy Castle: Chocolate-covered pretzels

DaisyMoon Bakery: Tiramisu cream puffs

The Cupcakerie: Assorted cupcakes

The chocolate covered pretzel won my heart because it was super smooth chocolate, salty pretzel and melt-in-your-mouth good. The Daisy Moon puff was good, and I've been wanting to try Daisy Moon for some time, so that was nice. And, I got to try a lemon shandy cupcake from The Cupcakerie, which was a new one so I was happy about that.

COFFEE:
The Sip Station - I tried an iced french vanilla drink from here that was delicious.
Ridge Roasters - I tried a strong Colombian roast that would definitely wake you up!

BEER:
Screech Owl Brewing: Hoo's Your Daddy