‘Taste of the Tri-States’ Treats Attendees to Sips, Sweets, and Savory Entrees

The Hotel Julien Dubuque was hopping on Tuesday, March 3rd with the "Taste of the Tri-States" taking place on the second floor. Over 200 people came out to sample some of the culinary fare from local bars and restaurants in Dubuque and the surrounding communities.

Neatly summarized as "corks, forks, and crafts," the event was put on by the Dubuque Chamber as a way to bring local vendors together to showcase their food, cocktails, mocktails, and desserts to the community. An event like this is wonderful to attend because it gives you a sampling of what kind of creations are being served right in your own community.

READ MORE: New Research Finds Iowans' Favorite Pizza Order

It was a treat to attend the event. One thing you sense immediately is the pride the individuals behind so many great food and beverages take in their work. Unlike on a busy day at their establishment, when they might be attending to a handful of things at once and unable to see their customers' reactions, they got and up-close-and-personal look at how people respond to the food and drinks they serve.

Twenty vendors participated in the inaugural event. Attendees were given three tickets at the door, signifying a vote for "Greatest Sip," "Greatest Savory Taste," and "Greatest Sweet Taste." If a person wanted to cast a vote for their favorite, they simply had to drop the corresponding slip into a box stationed on the vendors' table. The process was easy and equitable.

Pub 225, located in Milledgeville, IL, was one of the vendors whom impressed me the most. They served up a trio of different martinis, one of which was a "Keto" strawberry, which was almost unfathomably light and easy-to-drink. Bar 225 is looking to move their operation to Dubuque if the right place opens up. Fingers crossed that they do!

In addition, Paradigm Coffee Co. served up a brownie dessert with Pop Rocks inside, as well as some of their delicious blends. A relatively new business located in the Millwork District, they're on the short-list of places I want to stop at in the coming days!

The Outside Scoop also left an impression with their various ice cream samples. One of their ice cream offerings boasted goat cheese, which give it a texture akin to cheesecake.

The Winners of Taste of the Tri-States 2026:

The following businesses were deemed the winners of the respective categories based on attendee voting:

• Greatest Sip: Pub 225
• Greatest Savory Taste: Backpocket Dubuque (who served Korean BBQ wings, small tacos, and a dessert)
• Greatest Sweet Taste: The Outside Scoop

Dubuque Chamber Vice President of Events and Programs Justin Paradiso, a regular guest on the Y105 Morning Show, contextualized the goal of the event via a press release for the event:

The intent of this event was to support local restaurants and beverage makers who are working hard to attract customers in a time when people don’t have a lot of extra spending money; to help them attract and retain employees as staffing continues to be an issue; and to offer unique, memorable options for both locals and visitors alike. It’s all about community support, collaboration and celebrating the best tastes our region has to offer - Justine Paradiso

Find out about other events the Dubuque Chamber is hosting on their official website.