The second annual Taste of Balboa Island was held on Saturday, September 6^th, and what an evening it was! Presented by the Balboa Island Improvement Association, the Taste of Balboa Island brought people together for mouthwatering food and festive music.

After picking up name tags from the front table, guests entered the park area, which had been set up beautifully with high tables. Balboa Island restaurants provided the menu items, which were perfect for the late afternoon. Meatball sliders from Amelia’s, ahi bites from The Village Inn, ceviche from Wilma’s Patio and clam chowder from Crocker’s were just a few of the tasty treats available for purchase. Free ice cream donated by Ciao topped things off.

The silent auction lined the front side of the park, offering a variety of items straight off Marine Avenue. Bidders competed for jewelry, artwork, wine, gift certificates and more. There were even some personal donations, including a full-day sailboat cruise down the coast.

The vibe was casual and mellow, exactly what you’d expect on Balboa Island. It’s easy to forget that you’re in an area with such high-priced real estate. People are so welcoming and friendly; it’s like Smalltown, USA. With the summer tourists gone and things quieting down, the event was a wonderful get-together for all.