Castro Valley loves food, and I’m very often asked about local dining options. There is a misconception about restaurants and food offerings in Castro Valley.  We have numerous local restaurants and caterers that are on par with food establishments that you might find in neighboring cities, and often, at a fraction of the cost.

The Castro Valley Eden Area Chamber of Commerce hosts the “Taste of Castro Valley & Business Expo” next Thursday, March 30 from 4:30-7:30 pm at the Castro Valley Moose Lodge at 20835 Rutledge Rd. This is your chance to sample food that you may not know is available right here in Castro Valley.

You will have the opportunity to sample local foods, interact with business owners, shop retail vendors and more.  Pre-sale tickets for the event cost $8 (children under 10 are FREE) and are available in advance at www.edenareachamber.com.  You may also purchase ticket at the door to sample food from local restaurants, caterers and home-based food businesses for $10

“Taste of Castro Valley & Business Expo” brings together cuisine, culture and commerce. It offers attendees the chance to shop local retailers and become familiar with other businesses and non-profits serving our area.  Come out next Thursday to support local, small businesses, as well as the mission of Castro Valley Chamber of Commerce to foster economic development in the unincorporated parts of Alameda County.

A list of participating restaurants includes:

• Don Jose’s
• Jenn’s Cupcakes & Parties
• Desserts First
• Meadows at Redwood Canyon Golf Course & Event Center
• The Mexican
• Cakes By the Pound
• Aroma Cuisine of India
• Aurora Catering
• El Rancho Supermercado
• Karin Johnson Specialty Cakes & Pastries
• Kona Ice of Castro Valley
• Lucca’s Italian Delicatessen
• Milk & Cookie Bar
• Posh Bagel

And even more eateries and local businesses will be at the Expo.