Brace yourselves, Hudson Valley fairgoers.  One of your favorite food items at the Dutchess County Fair is not returning this year.

In a statement on his Facebook page, Mark Elia announced that his company would not be renting a booth at the Dutchess County Fair this year. Elia's Texas Connection has been a staple at the fair, serving mouth-watering barbecue to adoring fans for years.

But the one item they are most known for is the "Texas Parfait."

A. Boris
A. Boris
loading...

This meat sundae replaces chocolate sauce and ice cream with meat, mashed potatoes and gravy. Fairgoers have been known to start dreaming about those layers of brisket, pulled pork, coleslaw and mashed potatoes starting just days after the fair is over, counting the minutes until next August when they can have one again.

The Texas Parfait was tied for #2 last year in our exhaustive ranking of the 15 best foods available at the Dutchess County Fair.

And if you're hoping someone else will start making them this year, that doesn't seem likely. According to Elia, the Texas Parfait is trademarked, so those who do try to knock him off may find themselves in legal trouble.

There is some good news, however. Elia will still be making Texas Parfaits from time to time at various local events. So if you're really in the need for a meat sundae you can hunt down Elia's Texas Connection throughout the Hudson Valley. Elia says he'll keep his customers informed on The Hudson Valley Sausage Company's Facebook page. Their next event will be at Springiest in the Village of Highland on May 20.

 
Bonus Video
 

More From WRRV-WRRB