The second annual Flavors of Madison takes place from 5-7:30 p.m. Sunday, April 21 at the Concourse Hotel. For $40, you get to try dishes from about 25 area restaurants, so come hungry.

I was wondering how this event differs from the Taste of Madison. According to Joan Herzing, marketing manager of the Concourse, “The restaurants are all local and independent, the serving sizes are smaller so you can taste from more places and the tastes are included in your (admission).”

That means no national chains like Little Caesar’s, Capriottti’s or The Melting Pot; rather, you’ll get Pizza Brutta, Brasserie V and Old Feed Mill. I’m looking forward to the diversity of cuisine types, from Blue Marlin to Daisy Cafe & Cupcakery to Quivey’s Grove.  And yes, there will be a cash bar.

Last year, all 400 tickets were sold out, and this year, thanks to the bigger venue, 500 tickets will be available. The purchase price includes a a $10 Madison Originals gift card, good for about 50 restaurants, and helps fund two Madison College culinary scholarships.

For those unfamiliar with Madison Originals, it’s a not-for-profit association of local, independently owned restaurants and affiliated businesses in the Madison area. It also publishes a quarterly magazine.