The World of Flavors Competition celebrated the state's diversity by showcasing a broad cross-section of Rhode Island restaurants as they competed a $15,000 prize package. Restaurants from around the state sampled their food for voters who selected the winner in each category: Americana, South of the Border, European & Mediterranean, and Asian & Indian. The event, hosted by Shawn Tempesta of the Rhode Show on Fox Providence and featuring music by Spogga, kicked off Providence Restaurant Weeks (July 12-25). The World of Flavors Competition featured food from nearly 30 of the best restaurants in the state, including cuisine from Bolivia, Ireland, India, Italy, China, Japan, Cape Verde, Jamaica, Mexico, the Middle East, the United States and more.


The event also featured local beverages, including wines from the vineyards of the Coastal Wine Trail, Narragansett Beer, Newport Storm beer and Granny Squibb Iced Tea. Local artists were also on display, including performances by musician Spogga and poet Christopher Johnson. The Providence Skating was tented for this luxurious affair.