Historic Northeast residents and beyond have the opportunity to attend the 12th annual International Marketplace Taste and Tour on Independence Avenue June 7, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

The International Marketplace Taste and Tour — hosted by the Northeast Kansas City Chamber of Commerce — will visit restaurants with a variety of cultural foods and drinks. Visitors will have an opportunity to explore the Soma Shopping Center, an array of Somalian stores, among other local favorites, located in the International Marketplace. The tour will kick off at the American Sons of Columbus, 2415 Independence Ave., where attendees will have a Polaroid taken as a mock passport photo to paste into each individual’s tour guidebook. Afterward, they will board a trolley, ready to enjoy local specialties, support area small businesses and see the Northeast’s array of murals. With seven stops on the tour, it is an experience that has something for everyone — from Asian spring rolls to Mexican paletas. Two trolleys will make continual rounds on its route to bring attendees to their desired stops, before returning to the Sons of Columbus parking lot. 

Last year, the Chamber divided its ever-growing multicultural tour into two seasons. This allows food and culture enjoyers alike to experience various Northeast sections, and different cuisines along the Avenue. The second tour, which will include African and South American culture, is scheduled for Sept. 6. Tour participants can purchase tickets for either or both dates.

The Chamber is eager to show off its International Marketplace’s tasty restaurants and coffee shops. Visitors can purchase tickets prior to each event for $30 at www.nekcchamber.com, the QR code on this page, or at the American Sons of Columbus for $35 on the tour date.

All of the restaurants included on this tour are members of the Northeast Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, and they thank you for your continued support.