Tampa Food Swap Promises Good Food Fun

Food swaps are a point of convergence for foodies, chefs and bakers who want to celebrate the joy of good eating.

On Oct. 1 from 10 a.m. until noon, food fanatic and Patch freelancer Gina Melton will emcee the Tampa Inaugural Food Swap at Anderson Park. The event will present the opportunity for local enthusiasts to bring a dish and swap it for another food item.

Melton describes a food swap as a combination between a silent auction, a village market and an open house.

“In some cities in California, such as Los Angeles and Pasadena, food swaps are very popular, and that is what inspired me to start this one,” Melton said. “Essentially it’s about bringing people together for their love of homemade, artisan food.”

According to Melton, many people spend large amounts of time perfecting their recipes at home. A food swap gives them the chance to show off their best and sample other’s creations, too.

It is also a great chance to network with other foodies, make friends, and share a common interest. Melton said that she has already registered two chefs, some food bloggers and a few women from her own office. She anticipates an attendance of about 30 people.

The swap will last for two hours and take place at the Kate Jackson Community Center in Anderson Park. Participants will display their creations on tables, and then take time to see and taste each other’s offerings. Melton said that it is not unusual for food swap cooks to put considerable effort into the presentation of their wares.

The swappers write down which items they like the best and want to acquire. Then they fill out an auction sheet with their offer for trade – two of my mini crab cakes for a slice of your pie for example.

The event is free, but those who wish to attend must register in advance. Melton said this is to ensure that there is enough room for everyone.

Food items must be homemade and individually packaged.

Melton credits the popularity of such events to a feeling of community and sharing that people get from their participation.

“People are really into what they’re eating and where it’s coming from,” Melton said. “I think the reason people like to eat so much is that there is a community involvement. That’s what makes cooking for people or going out to eat fun. You get to share something.”

For more information about the Tampa Food Swap or to register, please visit www.tampafoodswap.com.  Participants can also register at http://tampafoodswap.eventbrite.com/ or connect on Facebook.

The Tampa Food Swap will take place at Anderson Park, 821 Rome Avenue in Tampa, from 10am-noon on Oct. 1.