For one evening from 5:30 to 8 p.m., April 8, chefs and owners from 40 area restaurants will gather at the Newton Marriott for Spring Seasonings: A Taste of Our Towns to showcase their best one- or two-bite offerings to more than 500 foodies, community members and business professionals. Local beer and wine shops will offer beverage pairings.

One of the region’s first tasting events in 1994, Spring Seasonings celebrates 25 years by focusing on community restaurants, striving to create the ultimate celebration of the dining scene in the western suburbs. It’s a scene that’s ever evolving and endlessly exciting. From fine dining to cozy neighborhood pubs to innovative new hotspots, the ‘burbs have it all, and they are all on display at Spring Seasonings.

Beyond the food itself, the event affords attendees and restaurateurs an opportunity to share stories and develop relationships. Chris Osborn, who was one of the founders of the event (while at The Depot in Upper Falls), now owns Better Life Food, in Nontanum, and will be among the exhibitors at the event. He emphasized how integral Spring Seasonings has been to fostering connections with customers, new and old.

“This event is the perfect venue to meet potential clients and visit with current customers one on one,” says Osborn. “When a customer comes into our place of business, we don’t always get the time to talk to them. Spring Seasonings provides the opportunity for new introductions and exposure.”

Cost: $65/$70 day of event (if not sold out). Location: 2345 Commonwealth Ave., Newton. For more information, visit SpringSeasonings.com.