YpsiTasty returns to Ypsilanti, showcasing local restaurants and businesses

Local food, community and small businesses joined forces again to organize YpsiTasty. The food-focused event returns Sept. 29 with an evening of tasting and exploring the city’s restaurants and retailers.

Organized with the A2Y Regional Chamber, the annual event gives residents and visitors an opportunity to experience local restaurants while supporting businesses throughout the community. YpsiTasty has been bringing people together for about 15 years.

Julanne Williams, a marketing and promotions specialist with the chamber, said YpsiTasty has grown into a popular food crawl featuring some of city’s popular restaurants. Hundreds of people are expected to participate in this year’s event. 

YpsiTasty was created to showcase the city’s local food scene and to encourage people to visit businesses they might not have experienced previously. Instead of staying at one restaurant for the evening, participants travel among participating locations and sample different foods.

Jenn Hayman, the chamber’s senior vice president for marketing, communications and events, said restaurant participation helps to strengthen the local business community.

The event runs from 4-8 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 29. Participants can purchase tickets online in advance through the chamber’s website. Tickets are $25; or $15 for students and $10 for ages 6-15. Each ticket gives the participant tasting rights at the listed restaurants, giving them a sample of that venue’s signature dish.

Participants can also explore other downtown, Depot Town and Cross Street retailers and boutiques for special offers during the event.

A trolley will be available to transport participants among the different stops. Hop-on, hop-off service will be complimentary. Free parking is available at the Ypsilanti Commerce Center lot at 301 W. Michigan Ave., courtesy of Stewart Beal.

For the organizers, putting together the event involves coordinating with restaurants and businesses, promoting the event and ensuring the evening runs smoothly for attendees.

For participating restaurants, YpsiTasty provides an opportunity to reach new customers and introduce them to their food, organizers said.

“It’s a great opportunity for restaurants to introduce themselves to people who may not have visited them before,” Williams said. “They get to showcase some of their food and connect with potential new customers.”

Hayman said the event gives restaurants increased exposure by attracting hundreds of people to the city, and it encourages attendees to return to those venues after the event.

In addition to a meal, YpsiTasty offers visitors a chance to explore the city, discover new restaurants and connect with the local community, she said.