CENTRAL CITY – The Gilpin County Arts Association (GCAA) hosted a spectacular and savory evening with its 2024 fundraiser, the inaugural Taste of Gilpin, on November 14, 2024, at Central City’s historic Teller House. 

As someone who attended the event, I can tell you it was a night filled with spectacular food, beautiful art, and community spirit.

The Teller House brimmed with renewed excitement during the gourmet gala, as enticing aromas filled the air and glimpses of extraordinary art could be seen through the windows. Locals arrived dressed in their finest, eager to sample the best of Gilpin County at this first-time event.

The night was a joyful mix of food, a silent auction, live music, and a performance painter. Guests mingled through the Face Bar, the Little Kingdom Room, the Main Hall, and the Atrium of the Teller House, enjoying great company and a lively atmosphere.

The event, conceived by Central City Mayor Jeremy Fey, who is also a GCAA board member, aimed to raise much-needed funds for the association while showcasing the culinary talents of local chefs from the Black Hawk and Central City area.

The silent auction was a major bonus, offering over 60 items, from paintings and sculptures to unique jewelry and photography. Guests eagerly placed their bids, helping the GCAA raise over $11,000 by the end of the night. 

The funds will support the association’s operations during the quieter winter season and contribute to essential repairs at Washington Hall, the historic home of the GCAA.

Throughout the evening, I watched guests excitedly move from table to table, sampling an array of dishes presented by the local restaurants and casinos.  

A culinary challenge added a competitive edge, judged by CBS’s Larry Herz and Dan Hoctor of Cherry Creek’s Chop House. 

The top honors went to Chef Greg Loiselle from the Bistro at the Grand Z for “Best Bite,” with his mouthwatering beef tartare, featuring tenderloin on crostini with horseradish sauce and microgreens. The White Buffalo Grill at The Lodge clinched “Best Cocktail” for their smoked cherry-infused negroni.

Executive Chef Michael Weinberg of The Lodge's White Buffalo said he started out as a line cook and worked his way up through the ranks, bringing with him an ethos of creating the best cuisine possible.

He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to meet locals and attract them to his restaurants, which include the White Buffalo, Jake’s Deli, and Lucille Malone’s. He revealed that the White Buffalo Grill will be rebranding in April to feature Italian items similar to the offerings at the exclusive event. 

For dessert lovers, Bravo Italiano delighted guests with an array of sweets, including cannoli, cookies, and red velvet cakes. 

My honorable mention goes to the chefs of the Maverick-owned Grand Z, for their lobster-stuffed mushrooms with hollandaise sauce.

The event wrapped up with the announcement of the auction winners, and many attendees left with unique pieces of art, full bellies, and the satisfaction of supporting a great cause. 

Sponsors included Central City Opera’s Teller House, JKQ BBQ, Maverick, Ameristar, Monarch, Grand Z, Dragon Tiger Casino, The Lodge, Bravo Italiano, Eureka Street Popcorn, High Heat 'n Sweets, Mountain Poppy Boutique and Wine Bar, The Tea & Spice Exchange, Dostal Alley, and Rick Thomas Distillery.

The GCAA extends heartfelt thanks to all sponsors, guests, gallery members, community supporters, friends, and the Board of Directors.

Donations are always welcome at www.gilpinarts.org/donate. Membership also offers opportunities to volunteer in various capacities, such as gallery preparation, gardening, and event assistance.

The turnout and community support made it clear that the Taste of Gilpin is set to become a staple in Gilpin County’s annual event calendar. The GCAA hinted that next year’s event will be even bigger. If you missed it, get your tickets early next time!