The 3rd Annual Vegfest takes place Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. at the downtown Salt Lake City Library Plaza, at 200 E. 410 South. The event, which promotes vegetarian eating, will have free food sampling, children's events, popular bands and comedians and a veggie burger-eating competition.
Professional skateboarder Charlie Thomas is performing at 11 a.m. and will conduct a free skate clinic for kids at 1:30 p.m.
Comedian Mike Jenkins is hosting the veggie burger-eating contest at noon.
Dr. Joel Fuhrman, a family practice physician, will speak at 12:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. about his book, "Disease-Proof Your Child." He will explain how nutrition can significantly impact your child's resistance to infections and conditions such as asthma and allergies. At 3 p.m., championship bodybuilder Kenneth Williams will demonstrate how his vegetarian lifestyle keeps him competitive and fit.
Local and national sponsors are supplying veggie burgers, veggie hot dogs, mock-meats, dairy-free ice cream and baked goods for sampling (www.Utahvegfest.org).
Mimi's Cafe, with locations in Layton, Murray, Sandy and Orem, is debuting a new menu for its 100-store chain. Beginning April 27, customers will be using the new menu, which has a simpler look. "Comfort Classics" such as chicken pot pie, pot roast and meatloaf will remain mainstays on the menu, which also includes pasta, seafood, sandwiches and salads. Several seasonal favorites — currently the citrus-broiled shrimp and asparagus, meatloaf ciabatta sandwich, jumbo spinach tortellini and tender lamb shank — will be offered for a limited time. Mimi's Cafe is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week.
The 2nd Annual Chocolate Lover's Festival takes place April 29 at The Avalon Community Church, 3605 S. State, from 5-9 p.m. Cookies, cakes, candy and other chocolate confections from local and national businesses will be available to sample. Proceeds go to Mr. Light & Associates, an organization for survivors of severe childhood trauma; and the Naray Cultural Preservation Council, which promotes health through traditional Native American Shoshone dances. Live bands will perform throughout the night. Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for kids, age 10 and under (saltlakewildchild@yahoo.com).
Pine, 4760 S. 900 East, is offering a Secretaries Week special from April 24-28. Secretaries can get a free dessert.
Submit restaurant announcements to Valerie Phillips, food editor, Deseret Morning News, 30 E. 100 South, P.O. Box 1257, Salt Lake City, UT 84110; by fax to 801-237-2550; or by e-mail to vphillips@desnews.com.