Our Community

Taste of Newton (September 12-13, 2016)

Hayek’s participates in the annual Taste of Newton, a fun and tasty sampling event that brings community vendors, restaurants, grocery stores, and more together to offer samples of their delicious offerings! Each year has its own exciting twists, and Hayek’s is always a welcome presence. The event is hosted by the Greater Newton Chamber of Commerce, and the entry fees support a scholarship fund for students in the culinary arts.

This year’s Taste of Newton was the 15 th Annual event, with live music from the Sussex County band Unsung Heros, as well as a “Chef’s Basket Challenge” that gives chefs a limited assortment of ingredients to create a delicious dish. Hayek’s was the winner of the Judge’s Award, combining Taylor Ham, apples, goat cheese, and gummy bears into an innovative combination! The Taylor ham was treated with a balsamic glaze, warm apple strudel was served over mixed greens, and a gummy bear reduction tied together the unique fruit and vegetable medley. We had so much fun, we can’t wait for next year!

Perona Farms: Taste of Talent (April 20, 2016)

Each April, Perona Farms presents Taste of Talent, an upscale culinary sampling event that brings together the finest appetizers, entrees, sides, and desserts from the local community. The event benefits Project Self-Sufficiency, a nonprofit agency that provides resources and services for low-income families in Sussex, Warren, and Hunterdon counties. Taste of Talent is the largest fundraiser event for Project Self-Sufficiency, helping community members engage for a great cause!

Hayek’s was one of the many participants, bringing our great culinary services to the taste test! The event organizers offer sponsorship packages from $500-$25,000, as well as a limited number of individual tickets for $200 each. The event sold out in 2016, and we can’t wait to see the turnout for next year!

Project Self-Sufficiency: Reading Event (March, 2015)

Project Self-Sufficiency helps low-income families to meet their need and goals, with the eventual hopes of making these individuals self-sufficient! One of the ways these goals are accomplished is through promoting reading for all ages. For preschoolers, this involves the “Celebrity Reader” program that pairs community leaders with local preschools to help children embrace the wonderful world of reading as well as presenting positive community role models. Dan Hayek, owner of Hayek’s Market, visited Little Sprouts Early Learning Center to read to the preschoolers. Reading the stories to the eager faces reminded him of reading to his own children when they were very young, and Dan hopes that all of these great kiddos will grow up to be avid readers!