The word "taste" generally implies a limited amount or experience. Limited is not a term to be used to describe this year's Taste of Broad Ripple.

If it was food and beverage you wanted, more than a dozen booths provided delectables at reasonable prices. Uncle Artie's offered rib tips and turkey legs. Parthenon's pitas stuffed with gyro meat and traditional or spicy sauce was the choice of many. Others sat on the sidewalk by Chelsea's to eat their Cajun cuisine from Yats. A guy was spied wolfing down a dog piled with everything. Corn on the cob was a big favorite, as well. Jazz Kitchen listed crab cakes and popcorn shrimp for the hungry. For those on a tight budget, Naan or Samosa from Jan and Dave Samra of Shalimar or a sausage sampler from Dick's Bodacious BBQ could be had for a single Washington. Japanese was there too. The sushi from Naked Tchopstix hit the spot for the more adventurous. More of a traditionalist? Hamburgers, chicken sandwiches and pizza fit the bill. Once you washed your meal down with a beer, a margarita or something softer, there was dessert. Ken Benson, a visitor from England was put to "work" by Chumley's. He was building strawberry shortcakes (with whipped cream, of course) and root beer floats. From gumbo to baklava, the choices were plentiful.

In addition to the food, the stage erected in between Bleeker Street and The Patio showcased live music. The lead singer of Living Proof delivered contemporary lyrics with a powerful voice. LaBeatos offered many oldies that got the people dancing and singing along. The group's drummer had a smoking beat. With his daughter Alexa on his shoulders, Richard Bray danced to the sounds. A couple was making smooth moves across the concrete. Guitars, percussion, brass and strong performances. Sounds of Mike & Joe and country's Jessica Andrews permeating the evening air.

People-watching at the Taste was in prime time. Folks lounged in the beer garden behind Chelsea's while others propped up their feet at the Corner Wine Bar. There were toddlers and babies. One parent was seen pushing a three seated stroller that resembled a dune buggy. Children sported butterflies and flowers on their faces. Others wore jaunty balloon hats. Couples were sitting on curbs and leaning against buildings. Officers, Ryan McCormick and Chris Edwards, strolled around the area. The Village's faithful fire fighters were taking in the crowd. Girls and guys were belting out karaoke at 97.1 HANK FM. Rowdie was there shaking hands and bobbing in the street. People-watching was off the ratings chart.

Whether it was delicious eats, rousing sounds or just checking out the sights, the Taste scored a home run. Kudos to all who participated.