Mintel at The Flavor Experience

Tonight’s happy hour event featured a number of tasty hor dourves and interesting cocktails in a great setting (on the patio overlooking the bay during sunset). Of the finger food laid out across the upper and lower levels of the patio, I tried:

• “Mini California Avocado Shrimp Cocktail”, designed by the Hass Avocado Board (a sponsor), and the name pretty much says it all. Served in a mini martini glass and very tasty.
• “Steamed Carlsbad Mussels”, two varieties were served but I only tried the Garlic Butter & Melted Fennel option (compliments of Land O’ Lakes) – also very tasty and locally sourced from Carlsbad, CA.
• The “Salty Strawberry Kisses” looked delicious but I got to talking and (literally) forgot about them. Another local product, dipped in chipotle dark chocolate then “kissed” with a dash of kosher salt (thanks to Cargill and PMA).

The latter two items are good examples of the “locavore” trend we’ve written about in a recent Mintel Report.

For cocktails, I ordered a “Chili Mango Rita” (spicy… served with a slice of jalapeño) and sampled a Tanqueray Rangpur “Cucumber Martini”. The latter was cleverly garnished with a slice of cucumber pinched in a wooden (looked like bamboo) clip.

The reception seemed well attended and everyone was very friendly. I had some interesting conversations on a variety of topics (Bennigan’s came up several times) especially how the slumping economy has impacted menus and marketing tactics. Interestingly, it seems smaller portions are being seen as an attractive choice in that they can be positioned as both potentially healthier and less costly options – particularly in areas like desserts.

ML