On August 27th, 2015, F4L had the pleasure of attending the kick-off to the 5th annual Los Angeles Food & Wine Festival. This four day multi-event food and wine showcase celebrates culinary personalities from around the nation, bringing them right here to Los Angeles. Here’s what we enjoyed most while experiencing the sights, sounds, and tastes of the “Ultimate Bites of L.A.”
The Ambiance
Seems like this event took place on Grand Avenue for a reason. The LA Food & Wine festival is a materialization of the the way you THINK you look while drinking wine of out a real glass: classy, sophisticated, and elegant. How could you not feel classy while strolling down one of LA’s most iconic streets on red-carpet covered pavement? Adding to the flair is the backdrop of the Walt Disney Concert Hall, an internationally recognized architectural landmark. If the sounds of celebrity DJs don’t suit your fancy -we have zero complaints about the high-energy Questlove set- we heard wine also pairs well with a symphony. While the chefs are the real stars of the night, we guarantee you’ll feel like one as well.
The Food
Picking a favorite here is like a parent choosing their favorite child. Impossible, but we’d also be lying if we said that some didn’t stand out…
Among the cuisines and products from some of the worlds’ most prominent culinary influencers, here were our favorites:
Chef Mariah Swan
Caramel Bacon Pretzel Doughnuts
This masterpiece captures in perfect balance the trifecta of sweet, savory, and salty. There’s something for every flavor palate in this fried heaven. And if doughnuts aren’t your thing, Swan’s spiked milkshakes are rumored to be among the top ten in Los Angeles.
Chef Dakota Weiss
Yellowfin Tuna Poke, White Soy Glaze
Named 2006 “Best New Chef” in Angeleno magazine for a reason, it’s clear that Weiss has continued to reign supreme. Her yellowfin tuna poke was refreshing, uniquely presented, and packed a ton a flavor for such a small dish. Be sure to check her out at her casual Hawaiian soul-food spot in Santa Monica, CA (you might even catch us there as well!)
Chef Robert Liberato
Charred Angus NY Steak
An excellent take on a classic steak. Chef Liberato’s version features horseradish grits, heirloom tomato, arugula, and smoked fig. With a touch a sweetness, this hearty, tender dish melts in your mouth. Be sure to visit STK LA to taste Liberato’s signature dishes and farmers market driven menu.
All-in-all
LA Food & Wine’s Ultimate Bites of LA is every food and wine-o’s dream. Unlimited food and wine from the country’s best chefs, enjoyed in picturesque downtown LA. This was an excellent kick-off event for a weekend that is undoubtably ever foodie lovers’ wet-dream. This event sells out fast – if you missed it, start planning ahead for next year. Hope to see you there!
