The Original Taste, a formal food and wine event now in its 52nd year, brings together more than 20 of the Valley’s most beloved restaurants. This year’s celebration takes place on Saturday, April 12, from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Scottsdale Civic Center. It will feature tastings from restaurants such as STK, Cala and Kasai as well as cocktails by local bars, a custom hat-making station from Rancher Hat Bar, live music performances and a red-carpet entrance. Most importantly, the event, which is presented by local nonprofit Executive Council 70, will raise funds for more than 100 children’s charities.
To learn more about what to expect at The Original Taste this year, we talked to 2025 The Original Taste chairman and Executive Council 70 member Mike Basham.
What are you most looking forward to at this year’s events?
As thrilled as I am for our restaurant lineup this year, I am going to have to say that Josh Ross’s performance has me the most excited. He did such a great job at the Birds Nest in February and has some really great songs I am looking forward to seeing in this venue where all of our guests are so close to the action.
What will be new at this event compared to past years?
We are excited to highlight some signature cocktails from hot new bars in the Valley!
What are your can’t-miss restaurants for attendees to get samples from?
Uchi was a hit last year, and we are lucky to have them back in 2025. Pyro and Élephante are new to our lineup, but there is really something for everyone when it comes to the food.
Do you have a fundraising goal for the year?
Every year, we try to get better. Last year, our group gave roughly $3 million to children’s charities across the Valley, and Taste has raised over $5 million in the past 10 years. We are proud of all our events, and our members work very hard to ensure we end our fundraising year with a bang.
Tell me more about the entertainment taking place this year.
Josh Ross is set to deliver an incredible show, but that is just the beginning of what is in store. The night will open with a performance from Ashley & Christie Walls and the party doesn’t stop as we lead into late night with a performance from DeeJay Silver!
To learn more or to purchase tickets, visit ec70phx.com/original-taste.
