Steuart Martens, a former contestant on “The Apprentice,” is returning the Taste of DC to downtown Washington. The multiblock event will feature more than 60 restaurants, 40 wines and 40 beers during the Columbus Day weekend, Saturday to Monday. I have to ask about “The Apprentice.” What was that like?
It’s a surreal experience. It happens so fast. If you have the right mind-set, it can be a very enriching experience no matter how far you end up going.
How far did you go?
Third place.
Where are you from? How did you get to D.C.?
I am a fifth-generation Washingtonian. D.C. has been great to me, I love it here.
I did not know that the Taste of DC had ever left.
Most people have no idea it ever stopped, the brand recognition with the event is incredible. Our goal is to change the paradigm of the event, take the great parts of the old event and make them better. As an entrepreneur we have added new components to make sure attendees have an amazing weekend. Just check out the music lineup.
You’ve created the World Chili Eating Championship for this event?
Correct, we wanted to incorporate really fun, exciting programming into this year’s event, such as an eating contest. We’re bringing some of the world’s best eaters here — Nathan’s hot dog eating champion Joey Chestnut and Sonya the Black Widow. The winner is expected to eat three gallons of chili. The amateur contest winner on Saturday gets to compete against the professionals on Sunday.
How did you get involved with the event?
I was presented with an opportunity to take over the Taste and I jumped on it. Our goal is to showcase D.C. as a culinary powerhouse. It would be a shame to stop promoting how vibrant our hospitality community is. We’re thrilled with the opportunity to resurrect one of the area’s most celebrated events.
– Scott McCabe
