It's summer in the Windy City and that means one thing for food lovers --- Taste of Chicago is upon us.

The city's 29th culinary and entertainment extravaganza kicks off Friday and runs through July 5.

Chicagoland residents as well as tourists rev up their appetites every year to consume tons of food, everything from ribs and pizza to such exotic fare as Middle Eastern samosas, Irish egg rolls and cheese empanadas.

"Last year 3.6 million people attended the event and we expect close to the same this year," Taste manager Mary Slowik said.

The first Taste of Chicago, held in 1980, was only a one-day event. In 1981, it grew to a 10-day shindig featuring diverse items from many of Chicago's top restaurants.

According to Slowik, fest personnel are always looking for ways to make the event better.

"This year we've tried to improve the customer experience at Taste of Chicago in terms of layout and value," she said.

In the past, the majority of vendor booths were located down the center of Columbus Drive. Customers will now find booths along the curb to allow more space for pedestrians. Specific entrances also have been designated. They are located at Monroe and Columbus, Jackson and Michigan, Congress and Michigan and Balbo and Columbus.

"And we've also required that restaurants serve two 'Taste of' portions at no more than $2 each this year," she said. During previous festivals, patrons were offered only one 'Taste of' option.

The lineup of restaurants totals 54 with many favorites returning to showcase their wares. New eateries featured are Manny's Cafeteria and Delicatessen, Blue Bayou and Garrett's Popcorn Shops.

Slowik called Manny's and Garrett's Chicago-area institutions that she's happy to have on board this season.

"Garrett's will be featuring an interesting item they're calling a 'popcorn-cicle' which is made by flash freezing," she said.

Among other restaurants serving up goodies will be Billy Goat Tavern and Grill, Connie's Pizza, Harry Caray's, Kasia's Deli, The Noodle Vietnamese Cuisine, Original Rainbow Cone, Polka Sausage and Deli from Chicago's Southeast Side, Soul Vegetarian East and Tutto Italiano.

Dominick's Cooking Corner will feature a mix of foodies including celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse, who kicks off the event with an appearance at 4 p.m. Friday. Lagasse will demonstrate a recipe and sign copies of his newest book "Emeril at the Grill."

Among other notables scheduled to demonstrate recipes: Lucinda Scala Quinn of PBS's "Everyday Food;" Jimmy Bannos of Heaven on Seven restaurants; Devin Alexander, author of "The Biggest Loser Cookbook;" Carlyn Berghoff of Berghoff Catering; radio personality Steve Dahl; chef Gloria Hafer and students of Washington RJD Culinary Institute on the Southeast Side (representing the After School Matters program); and The Times' own Philip Potempa.

The Chef's Table area, starring upscale dessert items, will spotlight 11 restaurants including Bittersweet, Ina's, Vinci and Thai Pastry.

Health will also be a focus at the Taste.

"Every restaurant is required to serve a healthy item," Slowik said, adding sponsor Humana has created a list and map of Healthy Choice items at the event.

Slowik said they've tried to offer something for every palate from different parts of the city.

"We want to have restaurants that exemplify the best of Chicago's culinary landscape," Slowik said.