Local exposure
Introduce your restaurant to West Valley food lovers, neighbors, and community partners.
Restaurants & food partners
Serve something
they’ll remember.
Showcase your culinary talent, meet the community, and help fuel childhood literacy in Surprise.
2027 restaurant registration, deadlines, and participation details will be announced. Contact the organizers to express interest.
Bring your flavor to the festival.
Restaurant inquiriesNew connections
Create memorable first tastes that bring guests back to your restaurant.
A place in the spotlight
Past participants received website, event program, social media, and event promotion.
A meaningful cause
Support free books for local children through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
The People’s Choice Award
The crowd has
great taste.
Guests at previous festivals sampled dishes from participating restaurants and voted for their favorite. The People’s Choice Award recognizes the dish—and team—that wins the crowd.
Bring your best flavors, presentation, and personality. Voting details for 2027 will be confirmed with the restaurant program.
A look back · 2026 participants
Local favorites at the table.
Thank you to the restaurants that participated in our previous festival. The 2027 restaurant lineup is still to be announced.
Angry Crab ShackNothing Bundt CakesTexas RoadhouseThe ToastRed LobsterPortillo’sChef Peters — Chuckwagon / SunlandCooper’s HawkUptown AlleyOlive GardenCarrabba’s
Restaurant participation information
What has restaurant participation included?
Past festivals offered tasting spaces in Surprise Stadium’s covered concourse, with an 8-foot table and two chairs on request, signage, and event promotion. 2027 venue arrangements and benefits are to be confirmed.
What should participating restaurants prepare?
Previous guidance called for 1,200–1,500 samples, with the final count confirmed 30 days beforehand, sufficient staff, serving equipment, signage, a handwashing station, and supplies for safe food service. The 2027 requirements will be shared with applicants.
What permits and insurance were required?
Past participation required a Maricopa County Health Permit and general business liability insurance with a $1,000,000 minimum. Organizers will provide the requirements applicable to 2027.
How have setup and logistics worked?
Restaurants previously requested electricity at least 30 days in advance, brought extension cords, and supplied their own refrigeration and cold storage. Sampling was offered without on-site sales. The 2027 setup, teardown, weather policy, and VIP wine tasting details are pending.
How do I learn more?
Email info@tasteofsurprise.com to ask about the 2027 restaurant program, sponsorship placement, and the required pre-event logistics meeting.