'Taste of Coconut Point' set for July 13

Coconut Point, Naples/Fort Myers premier open-air shopping destination in Estero, will host its first-ever Taste of Coconut Point presented by BMW of Fort Myers to benefit local nonprofit organizations on Sunday, July 13 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the mall's South Lakeside parking area. This event will feature fine cuisine from more than 20 popular Coconut Point restaurants, live entertainment, kids' activities and the introduction of the Coconut Connection Card.

"The Taste of Coconut Point is a great community event showcasing the best dining options in our community, plus benefiting worthy charities," said Diane Ivey, director of mall marketing for Coconut Point.

Attendees will sample tasty, signature menu items from many participating restaurants, including Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, California Pizza Kitchen, Johnny Rockets, The Grape, Marble Slab Creamery, T.G.I. Friday's, Moe's Southwest Grill, Starbucks Coffee, Tony Sacco's Coal Oven Pizza and more. Food lovers will be delighted to sample open-face pork sandwiches, shrimp remoulade, filet mignon sliders, New Zealand lamb chops, key lime pie, margherita pizza, caramel corn, Nestle's Toll House cookies and more.

Attendees will also enjoy live musical entertainment and kids will partake in interactive games, ranging from trivia to Chinese Pail Pong, compliments of Stir Crazy.

General admission is $3 per person. Food and beverage sampling ranges from $2-$5 per menu item. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Foundation for the Developmentally Disabled, Healthy Start, Bonita Leadership and Simon Youth Foundation.

The Taste of Coconut Point will also serve as the launch for the Coconut Connection Card, a free restaurant discount program valid July 13 through Nov. 15. Cardholders can visit participating restaurants to receive special discounts and offers, such as a complimentary appetizer with purchase of an entrée at The Grape, 25 percent off at The Grillroom, free bagel and grande coffee at Panera Bread, $5 off purchase of $15 or more at T.G.I. Friday's, free dessert with the purchase of two entrees at California Pizza Kitchen and more. Cards are available at the mall management office and participating restaurants.

For more information about The Taste of Coconut, call (239) 992-9966.