The words appetizer, canapé, snacks, hors d’oeuvres (originated from the French), starters, (American terminology), antipasto (Italian), gustus (Latin), tapas (Spanish), maza (Mediterranean), mezze (Middle East), zakuski, (Russian), dim sum (Chinese) and smorgasbord (Scandinavian) all have somewhat the same meaning: a small food served before a meal to whet the appetite.

"Toast of the Peninsula," a recently held event at the Gloucester Moose Lodge featuring a Bull & Oyster Roast buffet dinner executed by Chef James Washington, opened its evening of fine dining with a presentation of appetizers created and served by 15 professional chefs. They were competing for the votes of "best" from those attending.

The event’s joint sponsors, Laurel Shelter, Inc., and Loyal Order of the Moose, chose appetizers as the stars of the competition.

The Courthouse Restaurant served two appetizers, Banana Split Pie and Avocado Basil Shrimp. Take your choice or taste them both...