Buffalonians looking to explore the flavors of New York State don’t have to travel far. Taste NY, a program launched over a decade ago, celebrates the quality, diversity, and economic impact of food and beverages grown, produced, or processed right here in New York.
“Taste NY is a statewide program created to promote and support food and beverage products made right here in New York State,” said Molly Vigrass, Taste NY Market Manager. “The goal is to connect consumers with local producers – farmers, specialty food makers, wineries, breweries, and more – while helping those businesses reach new customers. At the Taste NY at the WNY Welcome Center, we act as a gateway to the region. Visitors and locals can discover products from across the state, learn about where they come from, and experience the incredible diversity of New York agriculture in one place.”
Photo by Sean Ballacchino
New York’s agricultural industry is booming, with more than seven million acres of farmland and 36,000 farms statewide. The state is a national leader in apples, maple syrup, and honey, and a powerhouse in craft beverages, and is currently ranking first in hard cider producers, second in craft distillers, third in breweries, and fourth in wineries.
“Taste NY benefits everyone because it strengthens the entire local food economy,” Vigrass said. “When people buy New York products, they’re directly supporting farmers, small businesses, and rural communities across the state. Programs like this also create more visibility for producers who may not have the resources to reach large markets on their own. By introducing travelers and residents to local products, we’re helping keep food dollars in New York while also encouraging agritourism and regional pride.”
Photo by Sean Ballacchino
For Western New Yorkers, one of the most visible places to experience Taste NY is at the WNY Welcome Center on Grand Island. “It serves as a hub for local food and tourism information,” Vigrass explained. “But Taste NY products can be found in a lot of places throughout WNY – farmers markets, farm stands, wineries, breweries, and local retailers that carry New York-made goods. The program also operates other Taste NY markets across the state and participates in festivals and community events where people can discover these products.”
Vigrass encourages locals to start small. “The easiest way is simply to start exploring,” she said. “Visit a Taste NY location, attend a local farmers market, or look for the Taste NY logo when you’re shopping for food and beverages. Trying even one local product can open the door to discovering so many others.”
For producers interested in joining the program, Vigrass notes,
The program is a great opportunity to reach new audiences. Producers who use New York-grown or New York-made ingredients can apply to become part of the program and potentially have their products featured in Taste NY markets like ours. Most importantly, Taste NY is really about celebrating the people behind the products – the farmers, makers, and entrepreneurs who make New York’s food culture so unique.”
Photo by Sean Ballacchino
Photo by Sean Ballacchino
Photo by Sean Ballacchino
Operated locally by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Erie County, the WNY Welcome Center location allows Taste NY to directly showcase the state’s farmers and food entrepreneurs. “Cornell Cooperative Extension has a long history of supporting agriculture, education, and local communities. Through Taste NY, we’re able to bring that mission directly to the public,” Vigrass said.
Taste NY at the WNY Welcome Center (1999 Alvin Road, Exit 19 off I-190 Grand Island, NY 14072) is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with extended hours 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. June through August. Questions or inquiries (including vendor applications) can be directed to erietasteny@cornell.edu or 716-773-0970.