“Taste Of The Nation” (taste.strength.org) arrived in Basking Ridge as part of a 70-city national tour to benefit organizations fighting hunger.

The newly opened Due Terre (www.dueterre.com) served tuna tartar. Pierre’s (www.pierresbistro.com) cooked up risotto. There were all manner of goodies by our friends and clients at Restaurant Serenade (www.restaurantserenade.com) and Rio 22 (www.rio22.net). Gary’s Wine and Marketplace (www.garyswine.com) brought great wine to wash it down.

Some little things were hugely impressive. Like Evangelia’s Traditional Greek Cookies, from A Taste Of Crete (www.tasteofcrete.gourmetfoodmall.com) in Bridgewater. Made from wheat, olive oil and wine—no trans fats, no cholesterol, no eggs or butter. But delicious. Buy a package from Esther Psarakis’ website. She named them after her mother in law.

For the record, the longest food line wound around the Grub Hut (www.grubhutbbq.com). The Manville barbeque joint brought a whole roast pig which was decimated in an hour. The most visual presentation (and second longest line) went to the Ketel One’s (www.ketelone.com) Martini Ice Bar.

The Taste Of The Nation has become a rite of spring. It’s one road show you don’t want to miss when it comes around again.