A festival that required adventurous taste buds and an open mind took place Thursday evening at the Joseph A. Floreano Riverside Convention Center in downtown Rochester.

The ROC City Meat Hot Sauce Fest returned and hundreds could not wait to see what the garbage plate's most famous topping had to offer during the fourth annual event.

300+ people is the anticipated turnout for the evening. I’ll have more from this tasty event tonight on @SPECNewsROC. pic.twitter.com/wy43bdfhXj — Breon Martin (@BreonMartin) March 14, 2019

The festival was hosted by the New York State Restaurant Association of Rochester, with 14 vendors from all across the area who showcased their own special top-secret blends.

The winner for most traditional was Bathtub Billy's, the winner for most creative was Grinnell's, first place in the people's choice was 585 Rockin' Burger Bar, second place was Webster Hots, and third place was Marshall Street Bar and Grill.

Although not every vendor represented took home a prize, the real award was just being there and enjoying a festival devoted to a food unique to Rochester.

“It’s just an opportunity to try different sauces and actually learn about a few different restaurants we didn’t know [of] before,” said Jim Connell of Fairport.

The whole set up! 👀 The meat hot sauce event is hosted by the Rochester Chapter of the NYS Restaurant Association to benefit the Educational Foundation. pic.twitter.com/AcgNSllkZz — Breon Martin (@BreonMartin) March 14, 2019

Connell and his wife Cindy attend the festival annually. She said says she enjoys the event and it brings back memories of old favorites.

“Growing up I remember going to Don & Bob's and different places, and always getting the hot sauce on dogs and burgers,” she said.

The Original Charbroil House & Catering is serving up its Greek sauce. pic.twitter.com/83oitTGlYE — Breon Martin (@BreonMartin) March 14, 2019

Proceeds from the meat hot sauce event will go towards college scholarships and the Rochester Education Foundation.