Taste of the South Returns

 

Carteret to Host 3rd Annual Taste of the South Celebration on June 19

The aromas of Southern comfort food, the sounds of live entertainment, and the spirit of community giving will come together for an unforgettable evening at Carteret Community College’s 3rd Annual Taste of the South.

The Black History Committee and Culinary Arts Program at Carteret Community College are proud to present the 3rd Annual Taste of the South on Friday, June 19, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. inside the Hospitality & Culinary Arts Center.

Now in its third year, Taste of the South has become one of the College’s most anticipated events, bringing together community members, supporters, students, alumni, and local leaders for an evening that celebrates Southern culture, culinary excellence, education, and community impact.

This unique event offers guests much more than a meal. It is a celebration of heritage, community, and student achievement, while also serving as a fundraiser that supports scholarships and community outreach efforts throughout Carteret County.

At the heart of this year’s event is an exceptional team of emerging culinary professionals. Chefs Dajah Sandifer, Alasha Dillahunt, Derek Blanding, Aaliyah Battle, Teesha Dorsette, Michael Mauro, Faith Jones, and Princess Carr have worked alongside faculty mentors to create an unforgettable dining experience that showcases their creativity, technical skills, and passion for hospitality.

For these students, Taste of the South serves as a hands-on learning opportunity that mirrors the demands of the professional culinary industry. From menu planning and preparation to presentation and service, the event allows students to demonstrate the skills they have developed through Carteret Community College’s Culinary Arts Program while serving hundreds of guests from across the region.

This year’s menu celebrates the bold flavors and traditions of Southern cuisine through an elegant five-course dining experience:

Passed Hors d’Oeuvres

Oxtails Bites
Jalapeño cheddar cornbread, creamy cheese, and chives

Brisket Deviled Eggs
Candied bacon and BBQ sauce

Cajun Crawfish Dip with Pita Chips

First Course

Fried Chicken Sandwich
Pepper jack pimento cheese and bourbon bacon jam

Second Course

Gumbo Ya-Ya
Braised chicken, andouille sausage, okra, Carolina Gold rice, and pickled scallions

Third Course

Jerk Pork Chop
Coconut rice and peas, pineapple mango salsa, and sweet fried plantains

Fourth Course

Braised Beef Short Rib Pot Pie
Garlic butter biscuit crust, maple yams, and smoked turkey collard greens

Dessert

Sweet Treat Sampler
Lemon blueberry pound cake petit four, butter pecan macarons, sweet potato crème brûlée tartlets, banana pudding cream puffs, and pecan cobbler tarts

Adding to the evening’s celebration, culinary student Princess Carr will perform an original spoken-word presentation, bringing an artistic and cultural element to the program that reflects the spirit and significance of the event. Her performance will complement the evening’s focus on heritage, perseverance, and community while highlighting the diverse talents of Carteret Community College students.

Serving as Master of Ceremonies for the evening is Ray Tillery, who will guide guests through the program and help celebrate the achievements of the students, scholarship recipients, and community partners who make this event possible.

While the event offers an unforgettable culinary experience, its impact extends far beyond the dining table. Proceeds from Taste of the South support the Gwen Fisher Memorial Scholarship, helping deserving students pursue their educational and career goals.

The event has also become a meaningful vehicle for community giving. Following last year’s Taste of the South, the Black History Committee donated $1,000 to support the Photography Program at Carteret Community College.

During the College’s 2026 Black History Celebration, the committee further demonstrated its commitment to community service by awarding $1,000 each to four local organizations making a positive impact throughout our region:

• Tri-City Ministers Alliance
• Boys & Girls Club
• Carteret County NAACP
• Neuse Pamlico Sound Women’s Coalition

These contributions reflect the committee’s ongoing commitment to supporting youth development, educational opportunities, advocacy, community engagement, and programs that improve the quality of life for residents throughout Carteret County.

As Taste of the South enters its third year, organizers invite returning guests and first-time attendees alike to join an evening that celebrates culinary excellence, cultural heritage, student achievement, and the power of giving back.

Event Details

3rd Annual Taste of the South
Friday, June 19, 2026
6:00 p.m.
Hospitality & Culinary Arts Center
Carteret Community College

Tickets are available at carteret.edu/events.

Community members are encouraged to reserve their seats early and be part of an evening featuring exceptional cuisine, inspiring performances, and a lasting impact on students and organizations throughout our community.