A Full House for CLASP Homes

CLASP Homes of Westport enjoyed a full house in the ballroom of The Westport Inn for its 15th annual Taste of Westport on Thursday evening to help raise money to support its programs.

CLASP provides homes and opportunities for adults with autism and other developmental disabilities, and collaborates with area businesses to match the capabilities of its clients with the needs of these companies.

TASTE brought together two dozen area restaurants, each offering a sampling of a house specialty, accompanied by wines and unique cocktails from Mionetto Prosecco and Black Bear Wines and Spirits, Total Wine and The infamous Cup Bearer who partnered with Cylinder vodka.

One of the stars of the evening was chef Carlos Baez of The Spread, named Serendipity’s 2017 “Most Innovative Chef,” offering “cocktail” tacos. Other restaurants offered pulled pork sliders, oysters on the half shell and truly jumbo shrimp; paella; steak bites; cold cuts, cheeses and crudities; and a selection of sweets and coffee.

Music was provided by the Bar Car Band, who kept everyone dancing with indie, soul and rock and roll — including lots of '80s faves and funky original tunes you'd swear you've heard before.

The varied and well stocked silent auction offered another opportunity to support CLASP by bidding on items including Yankees tickets, an “Italian” package, full of wine, olive oil and cheeses, watches, spa treatments, cosmetics selections, and family portraits and lots more at all price points.

CLASP thanks all who attended, and reminds those who didn’t that this evening to discover new restaurants, enjoy good wines and schmooze with friends while supporting CLASP Homes will return in May, 2019.