Aurora is truly “The World in a City” and that global influence is reflected in our food, with 440 authentic, specialty restaurants and markets, dozens of food trucks and countless other small cuisine businesses to explore. This year, the exciting competition Global Flavors is back to find the best global foods in the city.
Food providers in Aurora are invited to nominate a globally inspired dish, drink or dessert of their choosing through Sunday, March 30. In May, the public will have the opportunity to visit participating businesses, purchase and taste the featured items and vote for their favorites. The top three places will be recognized at Global Fest and featured on AuroraTV and the city’s social media platforms.
“As an extension of Global Fest, Global Flavors is a creative initiative that seeks to actively support and involve the local business community in this global celebration, showcase the diversity of food across Aurora, and unite people through food," said Ricardo Gambetta, manager of the Office of International and Immigrant Affairs. “Last year, the top three places were owned by members of the immigrant community, which was a perfect opportunity to recognize our diverse population's economic and cultural contributions as acknowledged in the city's Immigrant Integration Plan; we encourage all local food providers to be part of Global Flavors 2025."
In order to participate in the competition, businesses must be based in Aurora and be licensed by the city of Aurora to sell food; be in good standing with all their respective regulatory agencies; and feature a globally inspired drink, dish or dessert. A maximum of one application per category is allowed for a total of three different items per participating business. Nominations are currently being accepted and can be submitted at AuroraGov.org/GlobalFlavors.
Global Fest is able to feature the international cuisines of select local establishments, but no single event can capture the broad diversity of Aurora’s food scene, so Global Flavors is intended to expand upon those offerings to showcase more great restaurants from across the city. Last year, the top three places were SweetPepper Kitchen with their Jollof Rice, HoneyBee Asian Bistro & Sushi with their signature Flaming Tiger Roll and Ladydee's Authentic Nigerian Cuisine’s Heritage Red Beef Stew. Stories featuring the top three places are available at AuroraTV.org.
Global Fest, the city’s signature event, is from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, June 14, on the Aurora Municipal Center Great Lawn, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway.
Learn more about Global Flavors and Global Fest at AuroraGlobalFest.org.