Best dishes of Zoobilation 2017

The Indianapolis Zoo's annual Zoobilation food fest attracted more than 70 generous restaurants Friday evening feeding the mob of equally generous patrons.. 

I sampled at least 50 of them (I'm only human) in search of favorites. 

In no order, they were:

–The Baja Burger from Bru. Dining on complete sandwiches, even if they are slider size, is a sure way to keep from going the distance at Zoobilation. But this burger, topped with black bean edamame salsa, pea shoots, queso fresco, and a bit of guacamole was well worth devouring. 

–Ahi Tuna Tartare Bites from Ocean Prime. A crispy wanton was the carrier for ahi tuna accented with just enough wasabi avacado, sour cream to make it a winning one-biter.

–Mint to Be from I Love Juice Bar. At the halfway point in a Zoobilation dining adventure, I always find myself craving a refreshing drink. And the most refreshing this year was this delightful concoction comprised of mint, mango, pineapple, coconut milk and apple juice. 

–Ceviche from Table. Not only was the double hit of both Peruvian (shrimp and tilapia) and Acapulco (shrimp and scallop) Civiche delicious, but it was also a part of the best booth of the event, featuring tropically themed decor, a cheerful staff, and frozen horchata pops. I could have spent most of the evening in the Table zone and left satisfied.

–Ricotta Donuts from Vida. Okay, so I said I wasn't going to put these in any order. But whenever folks stopped me and asked what the not-to-be-missed booth was, I pointed them in the direction of the Cunningham Group zone, specifically to these balls of maple glazed dough with candied bacon and distinct maple cream. If I had a dozen of these to take to the office when my snack turn rolls around, I'd lock employee of the year.   

Were you at Zoobilation this year? Did I miss any of your favorites?