Nic Barlage, Danielle Sydnor, Larese Purnell and Kevin Clayton

Lacy Talley, Cleveland-based artist

One of Cleveland’s tastiest events, “Taste of Black Cleveland: The Food Showcase 4.0,” returned to Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse.
More than 1200 guests enjoyed an evening of good food and cultural celebration. The event featured some of Northeast Ohio’s top black chefs from local restaurants, food trucks and catering businesses. The chefs prepared their signature dishes for guests, who then voted for their favorite selections. Prizes were awarded to winning participants, who will also be recognized on court during a Cavaliers game.
“Tonight is about community. It’s about everybody here. Tonight is about coming together in a great way for our city,” noted Nic Barlage, Cleveland Cavaliers CEO. “This year’s event quadrupled our attendance two and a half years ago.”
Local mixologists served drinks and competed for the People’s Choice Drink of the Night presented by Hennessey. B. Landrum Entertainment LLC and Lo-Key Entertainment provided the music.
The event was presented by The Cleveland Cavaliers, Cleveland NAACP, The Real

Keera Person, Tammy Young and Shayla Wiley

Black Friday and Aramark, in partnership with the NBA and Hennessy. Proceeds support participating black-owned businesses, the Cleveland NAACP and The Cavaliers Community Foundation. STORY BY CYNTHIA SCHUSTER EAKIN/PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC EAKIN