Eve's Wine 101

L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade Turns 10!

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LOS ANGELES, CA — Marking a momentous tenth year, L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade, hosted by James Beard Foundation award-winners Chef Suzanne Goin and partner Caroline Styne (The Lucques Group) along with Chef David Lentz, is set for Saturday, September 14, 2019, from 12:30 – 4:30 pm on UCLA’s Royce Quad. Goin, Styne and Lentz have again enlisted the support and generosity of their culinary-superstar friends around the country who will donate their time and services to raise funds and awareness for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) and its mission to find better treatments and cures for all kids with cancer. The Presenting Sponsors for the cookout are Northwestern Mutual and Volvo Cars of North America.

photo credit Becky Sapp/Getty from 2018 event

Featuring fabulous food, wine and cocktails prepared by the nation’s best chefs, winemakers and mixologists, L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade is an afternoon of fantastic fare, cocktails for a cause, children’s activities, extravagant silent and exhilarating live auctions, and much more. The 2019 event is guaranteed to surpass the aspirations of previous years with returning chefs Michael Cimarusti, Chris Bianco, Adam Perry Lang, Donald Link, Nancy Oakes, Nancy Silverton, Jon Shook, Vinny Dotolo, Rocco Whalen and Marc Vetri coming together to cook for childhood cancer cures. First time participant is Gabriela Cámara, Mexico City’s beloved chef of Contramar (and Cala in San Francisco) who will open her first restaurant in Santa Monica in the coming months. More chefs will continue to be announced, as well as leading vintners and mixologists from across the country. 

Pricing for General Admission tickets is $195 until August 1, when the price increases to $225. L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade also offers a $1,200 premier ticket level that includes early access to the event,  VIP seating and an exclusive invite to the private and intimate Welcome Dinner the evening before, on Friday, September 13. The culinary cookout is family-friendly; children under the age of 12 are free with accompanying adult and do not need to register for the event.

For complete listings of participants and to purchase tickets for this year’s event visit the ALSF website. All proceeds will benefit the Foundation.

L.A. supporters enthusiastically responded with huge turnouts in the first nine years, sampling signature dishes of world renowned chefs and reaching over $7.3 million in sponsorship, ticket and auction sales to date. In addition to the generous backing of the community, prominent personalities from the entertainment industry – long time attendees Jimmy Kimmel, Laura Dern, Joe Mantegna, Timothy Olyphant, Kirsten Vangsness and others – have become champions of the cause.

More than 2,000 people, including more than 100 chefs, mixologists and vintners, attended the 2018 event, which raised nearly 1.5 million. Those in attendance heard an inspiring speech by Jay & Liz Scott, Alex’s parents, and co-executive directors of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, and Cooper Gray, a childhood cancer hero who was diagnosed with Wilms Tumor at age 4.

“I can’t believe it’s our tenth year. It seems like yesterday that we were introducing LA Loves Alex’s Lemonade to everyone here and now it’s a huge part of the Los Angeles experience.,” said co-founder Caroline Styne. “I’m so beyond thrilled to be part of such a worthwhile organization. And this day is by far my most favorite one of the year. Always.”

“We’re in awe of the commitment and generosity of Suzanne, Caroline and David, all the participating chefs, vintners, mixologists and guests of L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade,” said Liz Scott, Alex’s mom and Co-Executive Director of the Foundation. “It is so special to celebrate an entire decade of L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade! Every year we move closer to achieving Alex’s vision of finding a cure for all kids with cancer!”

For information on how to become a sponsor, contact Sara Moyer at Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, (610) 649-3034 or S.Moyer@AlexsLemonade.org

Become a fan of L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ALSFCulinaryEvents Follow on Twitter and Instagram: @LALovesAlexs

About Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation
Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) emerged from the front yard lemonade stand of 4-year-old Alexandra “Alex” Scott, who was fighting cancer and wanted to raise money to find cures for all children with cancer. Her spirit and determination inspired others to support her cause, and when she passed away at the age of 8, she had raised $1 million. Since then, the Foundation bearing her name has evolved into a national fundraising movement. Today, ALSF is one of the leading funders of pediatric cancer research in the U.S. and Canada raising more than $175 million so far, funding nearly 1,000 research projects and providing programs to families affected by childhood cancer. For more information, visit AlexsLemonade.org.

Partial List of Participating Chefs 

Chris Bianco (Phoenix) – Pizzeria Bianco

Gabriela Cámara (Mexico City, San Francisco) – Contramar, Cala
Michael Cimarusti (L.A.) – Providence
Josiah Citrin (L.A.) – Melisse

Eva Ein (L.A.) – McConnell’s Ice Cream

Susan Feniger & Mary Sue Milliken (L.A.) – Border Grill

Michael Fiorelli

Neal Fraser (L.A.) – Redbird
Suzanne Goin (L.A.) – Lucques Group

Hedy Goldsmith (L.A.) – Sweet Hedy

Valerie Gordon (L.A.) – Valerie Confections

Sarah Grueneberg (Chicago) – Monteverde Restaurant & Pastifico

Timothy Hollingsworth (L.A.) – Otium, Barrel & Ashes

Bruce Kalman (Pasadena, CA)

Sara Kramer & Sarah Hymanson (L.A.) – Kismet, Madcapra

Adam Perry Lang (Hollywood) – APL Restaurant

David LeFevre (Manhattan Beach) – Manhattan Beach Post, Fishing with Dynamite

David Lentz (L.A.)

Donald Link (New Orleans) – Link Restaurant Group

Jenn Louis (Portland, OR)

Walter Manzke & Margarita Manzke (L.A.) – Republique

Kevin Meehan (L.A.) – Kali

Matt Molina (L.A.) – Everson Royce Bar, Triple Beam Pizza, Hippo

Dahlia Narvaez (L.A.) – Mozza Restaurant Group

Zoe Nathan (L.A.) – Huckleberry

Nancy Oakes (San Francisco) – Boulevard

Zachary Pollack (L.A.) – Alimento, Cosa Buona

Mark Rosati (Nationwide) – Shake Shack

Steve Samson (L.A.) – Rossoblu

Michael Santoro (Beverly Hills) – The Beverly Hills Hotel

Michael Schwartz (Miami) – Genuine Hospitality Group, Fi’Lia

Jon Shook & Vinny DiTolo (L.A.) – Jon & Vinny’s

Nancy Silverton (L.A.) – Mozza Restaurant Group

Jonathan Sundstrom (Seattle) – Lark

Suzanne Tracht (L.A.) – Jar

Marc Vetri (Philadelphia) – Vetri Cucina

Rocco Whalen (Cleveland/Charlotte) – Fahrenheit

Shiho Yoshikowa (L.A.) – Sweet Rose Creamery

 

***All chefs and vintners have graciously donated their time, food and talent to the cause for this event***

Solvang’s First and Oak Restaurant Awarded 2019 “Michelin Plate”

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Solvang, Santa Barbara County, California, USA—For the first time, a Solvang dining establishment has been recommended by the prestigious Michelin Guide. On June 3, the 2019 Michelin Guide California debuted, awarding First & Oak at the Mirabelle Inn at 409 First Street in downtown Solvang with the “Michelin Plate” which recognizes “Fresh ingredients, carefully prepared: a good meal.” Only 13 restaurants in the entire county of Santa Barbara received this recognition. Other Michelin Guide ratings include “Bib Gourmand” and “Stars.”

First & Oak’s Michelin review states “In a small, romantic boutique hotel, this is a deliciously old-school restaurant that is coming into its own with ambitious contemporary cuisine. This should be no surprise, as the chef boasts a background in some esteemed and globally acclaimed kitchens. Guests are invited to create their own prix-fixe menu by selecting four to five dishes from a variety of categories, such as garden, ocean or farm. This might yield a meal that begins with a refreshing gazpacho made from delicately spiced melon with basil blossom and a bit of smoky fried shrimp. Masterful desserts have included a brown-butter sponge cake with dense clotted cream and marinated strawberries. Be sure to sample the owner’s own wine label, Coqueliquot, available in a range of styles.”

First & Oak opened in 2016, after the Rosenson family bought the Mirabelle Inn which houses the restaurant. Steven Snook, First & Oak’s opening chef, came to Solvang with a Michelin-starred Gordon Ramsay résumé. The restaurant’s current chef JJ Guerrero, a protégé of Chef Snook, continues to serve a popular, locally-sourced tasting menu format accompanied by a wine list created by Sommelier and General Manager Jonathan Rosenson. First & Oak serves dinner seven nights a week from 5:30-8:45 p.m. with reservations recommended by calling 805-688-1703.

Tracy Farhad, Executive Director of the Solvang Conference & Visitors Bureau enthused, “We are so thrilled to celebrate First & Oak being recommended by the prestigious Michelin Guide! Bravo to Jonathan Rosenson and his team at First & Oak for bringing your extraordinary international cuisine to California’s Denmark.”

The Solvang Conference & Visitors Bureau (SCVB) is a not-for-profit organization formed in 1986 to promote the City of Solvang, featuring its Danish-American heritage, Northern European culture, cuisine, arts and attractions.  The SCVB operates the Solvang Visitors Center at 1630 Copenhagen Drive; open daily from 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.; offering free maps, guides, savings options and plenty of information on the destination named by USA Today as one of the 10 best historic small towns in America.

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Solvang Conference & Visitors Bureau, Box 70, Solvang, CA 93464

Visitor Center: 1639 Copenhagen Drive ● Administrative Office: 436-G Alisal Road

TEL: 805-688-6144    FAX: 805-688-8620   TOLL-FREE: 1-800-468-6765    www.SolvangUSA.com

 

 

Visit Temecula Valley Announces 10 Best Restaurants

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TEMECULA VALLEY, Calif. (PRWEB) – The top restaurants to try in Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country, according to ratings and reviews on TripAdvisor include dining experiences in Temecula Valley Wine Country and Old Town Temecula, as well as others just minutes away from these main attractions. Some of the restaurants that made the list have been popular favorites for years while others are new additions to the destination. All top ten restaurants were given 4.5 ratings on TripAdvisor by its customers, the largest social travel website in the world. There were several more Temecula Valley restaurants with this rating, so those with the highest number of positive reviews were selected as the top ten.

The Restaurant at Ponte Winery received the most reviews at 620. It also placed as a Top 100 Restaurant for Al Fresco Dining in the United States, as rated by TripAdvisor and OpenTable. The outdoor restaurant is surrounded by stunning vineyards and manicured gardens. They serve locally sourced produce, all natural, hormone-free meats and wild caught or sustainably farmed fish. They are open for lunch daily and dinner is available Friday and Saturday evenings. Reservations are strongly encouraged.

Other wine country restaurants in the top ten are Pinnacle at Falkner Winery and Creekside Grill at Wilson Creek Winery. Set on a 1,500-foot hilltop, Pinnacle offers indoor and outdoor seating with a breathtaking panoramic view. This award-winning restaurant serves Mediterranean style lunch in an elegant setting daily. Their wines pair perfectly with their menu items. Creekside Grill is cozied up to the winery’s 30-year old Cabernet grapevines and herb garden. The restaurant offers fresh, wine-inspired casual fare. Guests can expect gorgeous salads, scrumptious sandwiches, and seasonal inspired specials. They are open daily, including a popular Sunday brunch.

The Goat & Vine came in with 537 positive reviews. Their philosophy is that food should be honest, healthy, and created with the utmost integrity. Every morning they handcraft their breads, pizza dough, sauces, dressings, and proteins from scratch. Themed handcrafted pizza is their specialty. The Goat & Vine is open daily for lunch and dinner. They don’t take reservations so plan for a wait but its well worth it.

Another Old Town Temecula top place to dine is E.A.T. Marketplace. They do their best to make sure every ingredient is free of GMO’s, antibiotics, hormones, and pesticides. They are dedicated to sourcing the cleanest foods possible and serving locally driven foods that are hyper fresh and nutrient dense. E.A.T. Marketplace offers delicious menu items for those with dietary restrictions as well as carnivores, vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, and paleo eaters. They are open for breakfast and lunch daily.

An authentic Tuscan-Sardinian-Italian cultural experience can be found at Trattoria Toscana. Chef Pietro, born in Sardinia, carefully selects fresh, local ingredients as well as imports from Italy to create high quality, homemade Tuscan and Sardinian meals in his scratch kitchen. He sun-dries tomatoes by hand using fresh, organic tomatoes to accentuate the flavors of his dishes, such as his popular dish, Pappardelle con Funghi. Trattoria Toscana is open daily for lunch and dinner, excluding Tuesdays.

Cork|Fire Kitchen is nestled in the canyon on the south end of town at Temecula Creek Inn. This rustic yet refined farm-to-table dining experience features inventive menus made for sharing. Floor to ceiling windows provide a gorgeous view of their pristine golf course. Cork|Fire Kitchen uses Temecula edibles, foraged fresh and organic whenever possible. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner makes it convenient for those staying at this charming resort, as well as visitors to the region since its located just minutes from everything there is to do in Temecula Valley.

Seafood lovers savor the fresh, sustainable menu at Bluewater Grill. The company operates their own swordfish harpoon boat and serves the finest quality locally harpooned swordfish in the season. Other fish is direct from the fisherman offshore in San Diego, just south of Temecula Valley. Bluewater Grill offers more than 40 varieties of seafood annually, with oysters on the half shell, award-winning chowder, and local wines that pair with their menu beautifully. They are open daily for lunch and dinner.

Garage Brewing Company not only serves award-wining handcrafted beers, but they have thin crust pizza dough made fresh daily with Italian milled double 00 flour that is fermented for a minimum of two days. The unlimited possibilities of flavor combinations keep guests coming back for more. Be sure to save room for one of their tempting dessert pizzas. The restaurant is open Wednesday through Sunday for lunch and dinner.

Great Harvest Bread Company is known for its fresh, made from scratch breads but they also serve lunch daily. Their sandwiches are made from breads using whole wheat that is ground fresh daily. Between the slices of breads are layered with premium meats, gourmet style spreads, and fresh vegetables. Arrive early for the best selection of baked goods to start the day or enjoy their full menu until 6:00 pm, Monday through Saturday.

These stand-out restaurants identified on TripAdvisor are some don’t-miss stops when staying in Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country. Find out more about dining options in Temecula Valley at VisitTemeculaValley.com.

A three to five-day stay is recommended to see and do everything this destination has to offer. Just an hour from San Diego, Orange County and Palm Springs; and 90 minutes from Los Angeles makes it an ideal hub for visiting all major Southern California attractions.

ABOUT THE TEMECULA VALLEY AND VISIT TEMECULA VALLEY
Laid back, picturesque Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country welcomes nearly three million visitors each year. It is a year-round vacation destination, located 60 minutes from San Diego, Orange County, and Palm Springs; 90 minutes from Los Angeles.

Temecula Valley Wine Country is widely recognized for its scenic vineyards, award-winning wines, and experiential wineries. The popular boutique destination includes the Temecula Valley A.V.A. (American Viticulture Area) as well as historic Old Town Temecula, and Pechanga Resort Casino. It also was named as a 2019 Wine Enthusiast 10 Best Wine Travel Destination.

Visit Temecula Valley is the region’s official tourism marketing organization and resource for visitors. The Visitors Center is located in Old Town Temecula. For visitor information and assistance, please call (888) 363-2852 or go to VisitTemeculaValley.com.

Meeting with Winemaker Zak Miller, and All Things Domaine Carneros

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Love invites to wine and dine with winemakers, and this one was right up there with the best:

Hi Eve, 

A day trip to Napa and a leap of faith led Zak Miller, winemaker at Domaine Carneros, on a journey from field research in forestry science to the vineyards of California, Chile and New Zealand to learn all he could about winemaking. And another leap, joining Domaine Carneros over a decade ago, saw his deep respect and fascination for the Pinot Noir grape blossom into a surprising love affair with chardonnay working alongside Eileen Crane, Founding Winemaker and “America’s Doyenne of Sparkling Wine.” As winemaker at Domaine Carneros, Zak oversees the day to day operations of sparkling winemaking. 

On behalf of Zak…we’d like to extend an invitation to join him for an intimate dinner of award-winning, estate Carneros sparkling and still wines…at Avra Beverly Hills.

Winemaker Zak Miller

The Meeting

Tucked in the back of the swanky Avra Beverly Hills restaurant, Zak Miller sat alone at a table for five waiting for four ladies of the pen, the wine pen, to arrive. Though the restaurant was a bit high-status, along with Miller’s pedigree, Miller was not. Affable, friendly and open from the moment he stood to say hello to the end of our time together, roughly two hours, I came away armed with plenty of info to share from our “bubbly” time together. (If you just want to see more photos, go here.)

I had received a large file of past and current press releases from the winery and I have abbreviated some of that below. Before that I will share what we talked about and my notes on both the still and sparkling wines we sampled. This is what I learned from Miller firsthand, we absorbed more (in more ways than one – lol) during the tasting:

  • This is Miller’s 12th harvest with Domaine Carneros. He had experience winemaking for Saintsbury in Napa, as well as wineries in New Zealand and Chile.
  • The winery is striving to be 100% Estate Vineyards, they currently have 400 acres. They have long relationships with growers in Carneros for some of their fruit.
  • It takes roughly 10 years from harvest to release for each vintage.
  • The “Chateau” in Carneros is a replica of Champagne Taittinger official residence, the Chateau de la Marquetterie. Taittinger founded Domaine Carneros in 1987.
  • They use up to 13 Chardonnay clones in the sparkling wines.

The Tasting

2012 Le Reve Blanc de Blancs

2012 was a big harvest according to Miller. The bottle, the only one with embossing and a different all over shape, will be hard to find except in fine restaurants. A little over $100 a bottle and made with 100% estate grown Chardonnay. I got aromas of crisp yellow delicious apple, Brie cheese, rye toast and a mild salinity. In the mouth I got that same bright apple, pear, pink grapefruit and plenty of citrus. $115 a bottle.

2015 Brut Cuvee

This wine – 51% Chardonnay, 47% Pinot Noir and 2% Pinot Gris – spent 36 months in barrel. Notes of white peach, cream, white pepper and green grass on the nose with fresh fruit cocktail and hard red apple candy on the palate. $36 a bottle.

2016 Estate Pinot Noir

They make about 12 thousand bottles of Pinot Noir per year. This vintage used 15 of their 16 Pinot Noir clones, all estate. Loved the aroma of black cherry, stems and must as well as the flavor of both red and dark cherry, black currant and toasted oak. Well balanced fruit and tannin. After twenty minutes the wine further improved and showed more of that dark fruit I liked. Nicely done for only about $30 a bottle for a Napa Pinot.

Cuvee de la Pompadour

This blend of 59% Pinot Noir and 41% Chardonnay had only been macerated with the skins on for a few days before draining off. Miller wanted the color but not the tannins from the Pinot. He felt that a heavy Pinot influence makes the sparkling “bastardized.” Yellow cling peaches, raspberries, golden raisins and a hint of flint greeted me on the nose, followed by raspberry, red cherry and just a tad of cheddar. $42 a bottle.

From Domaine Carneros (Abbreviated)

Some history: Founded in the Carneros appellation of Northern California by the Champagne Taittinger family, Domaine Carneros is a small grower producer of ultra-premium Carneros Sparkling wines and limited production Pinot Noirs. Thirty years after the winery’s inaugural harvest, Domaine Carneros has become the benchmark for California Sparkling wine, reflecting both the individuality of the Carneros’ terroir and the craftsmanship of its French legacy.

The Chateau: Completed in 1989, the 18th century château-style building was architecturally inspired by the historic Château de la Marquetterie owned by Champagne Taittinger in the Champagne region of France. Situated atop a knoll and overlooking endless rolling vineyards, the elegant property is an iconic Northern California landmark. The château houses the winery’s facilities as well as beautiful salons for visitors and wine club members.

The summer of 2018 marks the completion of the highly-anticipated and beautifully-designed Jardin d’Hiver – a conservatory-style addition to the north terrace of the renowned Domaine Carneros château, which will allow guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of Carneros and surrounding vineyards while being shielded from the weather.

Winemaker Zak Miller: It was his first harvest in Napa Valley at Saintsbury Vineyards that gave him a deep respect and fascination for the ever challenging Pinot Noir grape. Eager to continue learning, he traveled to New Zealand and Chile to hone his craft. Returning to northern California wine country in 2008, Miller joined Domaine Carneros with the goal of continuing to evolve his skill with pinot noir working closely with TJ Evans and his still wine program at the chateau. Or so he thought.

Working alongside Founding Winemaker, Eileen Crane, opened to Miller a new realm of possibility in winemaking – sparkling wines – and he hasn’t looked back since. Through Crane and the Domaine Carneros team, he developed a deep appreciation for the versatility of both pinot noir and chardonnay in sparkling winemaking and the great skill required to craft beautifully balanced, elegant yet complex wines. And through his work as a sparkling winemaker, he grew to love a variety he admittedly didn’t gravitate toward originally – chardonnay – which provides the base for what he feels is its finest expression (and a personal favorite), Blanc de Blancs.

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 16k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

Toscana Restaurant Celebrates 30th Anniversary in Brentwood

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LOS ANGELES, California – Mike and Kathie Gordon, owners of Toscana, the extremely popular Tuscan restaurant in Brentwood with a devoted following of food-lovers, celebrate their 30th year in business this year. In tribute, they’ve planned a week-long nod to their original menu from 1989 that started the story. Festivities begin Monday, June 10 and continue through Sunday, June 16, 2019, when the Gordons and the Toscana team invite their regulars and the public to join the festivities. The Toscana kitchen will offer their classic dishes of Salsicce all’ Uccelletto; Ravioli Radicchio; Scampi e Fagioli; Pollo al Mattone; Costolette d’Agnello alla Trevisana; and Florentina ala Bracie, among others that were featured on the opening of the restaurant and continue to be favorites to this day. The Gordons will be in-house nightly to personally greet their many loyal guests and to welcome new customers. In appreciation of many years of loyalty, they have created a special memento as a gift of thanks to the diners.

While looking back over the three decades, the Gordons have set their eyes to the future with an energized kitchen team. Newly installed Executive Chef Luca Crestanelli of Toscana’s sister restaurant S.Y. Kitchen in Santa Ynez will bring inspiration to the classic Tuscan cuisine. Working closely with Crestanelli is the recently recruited Samuele Minin as Chef de Cuisine. The two collaborate on Toscana’s menu and daily specials, infusing them with their Italian traditions along with the flavors and ingredients of Southern California’s markets.

Toscana was quietly opened in April 1989 by first-time restaurateurs Mike and Kathie Gordon and musician Doc Severinsen, who dreamed of creating a modest Italian trattoria in their neighborhood where friends and family could come together to eat the simple, delicious food they found in the small towns and kitchens of Tuscany. The trattoria’s success exceeded all expectations from the start. The cozy yet lively environment was discovered and soon populated by celebrities, industry leaders, politicians and athletes, along with locals and visitors from around the world. Dining on the clean, flavorful dishes of Toscana encouraged their clientele to return often; typically an average of several times a week.

The Gordons found it gratifying when their customers began bringing family and business associates for gatherings of their own. Every year, Director Michael Mann hosts a special dinner for all of the Oscar-nominated directors during the exciting week leading up to the Academy Awards. Just a few years back, Composer and Producer David Foster needed a place for a last-minute respite for acclaimed musical artists Andrea Bocelli, Josh Groban, Barbara Streisand and others following a long day’s rehearsal for the Grammys, and brought them to Toscana to relax and share dinner. Long-time patrons have had yearly multi-generational birthday and anniversary celebrations throughout all three decades. Today, grandkids of the original regulars are some of Toscana’s favorite guests.

From the moment the colorful, signature Pinzimonio (Italian-style crudité) arrives at the table to nurture everyone with a first bite, to the farewell thank-yous from the staff, everyone is treated like family. The Gordons’ warm and welcoming personalities inspire the style of the friendly and professional staff – the dear Alberto, now retired to Italy, and Mark, Max, Roby and Emilio among the others – many of them have been working at Toscana since opening day. Thirty years later, the restaurant continues to thrive and buzzes daily with the electricity of anticipation of another wonderful meal.

The talented culinary team at Toscana has firm Italian roots. Executive Chef Luca Crestanelli was born and raised in Verona, Italy, where he received his Culinary Arts degree. Luca’s career has taken him across the globe which helped refine his epicurean sensibilities through exploration and hands-on discovery of regional cooking styles. After stints at Vincenti in Brentwood and positions as a private chef, he was invited to work for the Gordon family, launching Bar Toscana in 2010. In 2013 the three partnered to open a third restaurant, S.Y. Kitchen in Santa Ynez, California, where he is based today. Born in the small town of Griis di Bicinicco in northern Italy, Chef de Cuisine Samuele Minin grew up in his family’s restaurant, learning how to create traditional plates from his parents. He moved to the United States as a young teenager with an abundance of energy and a drive to learn from seasoned Italian chefs around the country. Since arriving in California in 2010, he’s proudly opened several restaurants – and most recently served as sous chef at Nerano, Toscana’s sister restaurant in Beverly Hills.

The Gordons are grateful for the longevity of their restaurant and are actively involved in the management of Toscana, the adjacent Bar Toscana, Nerano in Beverly Hills and S.Y. Kitchen in Santa Ynez, California where they have a home.“As Toscana looks to the future, it continues to retain whatever is good from the past,” states Mike and Kathie Gordon. “We feel as if we belong to a special part of the world where each generation is connected to all the ones that went before.”

TOSCANA 30th ANNIVERSARY MENU
served daily from Monday, June 10 through Saturday, June 15, 2019 

TOSCANA 30th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Monday, June 10 through Sunday, June 16, 2019

 

Lunch at Toscana:

Monday – Saturday 11:30 am – 3:00 pm

Sundays 11:30 am – 2:00 pm

 

Dinner at Toscana:

Monday – Thursday 5:30 pm – 10:30 pm

Friday – Saturday 5:30 pm – 11:00 pm

Sunday 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm

 

TOSCANA

11633 San Vicente Blvd #100

Los Angeles, CA 90049

310.820.2448

 

Become a Fan of TOSCANA on Facebook: www.facebook.com/toscanabrentwood

Keep up with TOSCANA on Instagram: @toscanabrentwood

Follow TOSCANA on Twitter: @TOSCANA1989

www.toscanabrentwood.com

New News for Wine On The Roof, Set For May 16

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Presented by the WiSH Education Foundation, Wine on the Roof is being held on May 16, 2019 on top of the Macy’s parking structure at Westfield Valencia Town Center. The event, starting at 6:30 pm, will feature at least six food courses prepared by local chefs paired with many wines from our handpicked winemakers. In addition, this year we are adding wines for the appetizer hour donated by private wine enthusiasts. Local favorite Lance Allyn will provide live music. Up to twelve winemakers and vintners will be seated among our guests to answer questions about the wines. Only 200 tickets will be sold.

“This was so popular for our first year that we had to bring it back again this year,” says Amy Daniels, Executive Director of the WiSH Education Foundation. “It’s a great way for our community to really enjoy and spoil themselves and support our local students.”

Created by Eve Bushman of Eve Bushman Consulting, the event is also hosted by Marlee Lauffer of Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Foundation and Steve Lemley of Pulchella Winery. Tickets are $125 and available now at www.WiSHscv.org.

Lemley added, “This is a wonderful opportunity for us as winemakers to share our wines as paired with food that presents them well. To be able to sit among the diners is yet another great occasion to share our knowledge and toast to a wonderful spring evening.” Adds Bushman, “We try to bring something new to these events every year and I think we’ve succeeded in doing that. The response has been incredibly positive and we look forward to another successful event for everyone involved.”

Currently, participants include Salt Creek Grille, Old Town Junction, Nealie’s Skillet, Olive Terrace, Honu Coffee, Greater Pacific, Newhall Press Room, Marston’s, Wolf Creek Restaurant and Brewing Company and Smokin Bar-B-Quties. Wineries include Pulchella Winery, Dusty Nabor Wines, The Blending Lab, Pagter Brothers, Triassic Vineyards, Ascension Cellars, Byron Blatty Wines, Hoi Polloi Winery, Parhelion Cellars, Two Papas Wines, Mystic Hills Vineyard and Golden Star Vineyards.

Each course is presented with a wine – paired by Lemley and Bushman – and single menu card that lists the dish, chef, restaurant, winery, wine and winemaker. As the dishes are served our chefs and winemakers are invited to introduce the course and the wine respectively.

We want to promote our generous wineries and restaurants as much as we can and ask that our guests take the menu cards home with them so they can reach out to the restaurants and wineries that they enjoyed.

We ask that our guests be responsible; this is a 21 and over event. Westfield is allowing cars to be parked overnight in the garage and Hyatt Regency Valencia, only steps away from our roof, is offering a special rate of $109 for our guests. Simply call the Hyatt at 661-799-1234 and ask for the “Rooftop” rate.

We appreciate our sponsors Westfield Valencia Town Center, Eve Bushman Consulting, Santa Clarita Magazine, SOS Entertainment, and Jennifer Ramos Social Conduit. Our restaurant prep tent coordinator will again be the amazing Jennifer Chadwick of Salt Creek Grille.

For more information on ticketing and sponsorships, please contact Executive Director Amy Daniels at WiSH@hartdistrict.org or go to www.wishscv.org.

Fall in Love At These Eight Special Date Spots This Spring

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Bone Kettle: 

Old Town Pasadena has welcomed Bone Kettle with open arms as brothers and Partners Eric Tjahyadi and Executive Chef Erwin Tjahyadi have transformed beloved Indonesian dishes into a modern dining experience that ignites the taste buds, creating a very unique and special place for Date Night. Guests can enjoy Executive Chef Erwin Tjahyadi’s homemade Bone Broth, using time-honored cooking techniques and fresh, ingredients reflective of Southeast Asian traditions, is made by boiling beef for 36 hours in filtered water with onions, garlic, ginger and a specific to Bone Kettle mix of dried spices; the Oxtail Dumplings made with oxtail, seasonal mushrooms, leeks, San Bai Su, or the Spicy Papaya Salad prepared with green papaya, mangoes, tomatoes, chili, cilantro, green beans, peanuts, and bay scallops adding just the right amount of zest for the perfect night. The sharable plates and unique desserts, along with Bone Kettle’s specially curated Wine, Sake and Beer List, will nourish your mind, body and soul, making this your new go-to Date Night spot!

Bone Kettle is open for Dinner every Monday through Sunday from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm; 67 North Raymond Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91103: 626.795.5702; www.BoneKettle.com 

 

Casita Del Campo: 

Legendary Casita Del Campo celebrating 57 years in Silverlake is colorful, artistic and the perfect setting for a Date Night in a cozy booth or in the Chimney Room by the fireplace. Delicious Fresh Fruit Margaritas, such as the Strawberry and Pomegranate Margaritas made with fresh lime juice, triple sec and tequila are the perfect treat to get you in the mood. Homemade Mexican fare like the Casita’s Special; six delicious crispy mini tortillas topped with chicken, beef, beans, jack cheese, sour cream, and fresh guacamole, served with chopped tomatoes and peppers is served to share; the cheesy Enchiladas are prepared with a choice of protein or can be served vegan with a light tomatillo sauce, and the Mahi Mahi is grilled and topped with red bell peppers, onions, cilantro, tomatoes and is served with white rice, black beans, and plantains made with love and perfect to enjoy over conversation. Casita Del Campo’s atmosphere will take your Date Night to the next level, not to mention, the music will bring just the right amount of fun to spice up any night!

Casita Del Campo is open every Sunday through Wednesday from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, every Thursday from 11:00  am  to  12:00  Midnight,  and  every  Friday  and  Saturday  from  11:00  am  to  2:00  am;  1920  Hyperion Avenue,  Los  Angeles,  CA  90027; 323.662.4255; www.CasitadelCampo.net

 

Celestino, Photo Credit: acuna-hansen

Celestino Ristorante: 

A true Pasadena staple, Celestino Ristorante, is the epitome of where to go to impress a date. The perfect combination of Old School flare with just the right amount of Pasadena sophistication, this Drago establishment has you covered with delectable Wines from Italy, as well as authentic and highly regarded Italian cuisine from Owner and Executive Chef Calogero Drago. Whether you begin with the Prosciutto & Melon or the Jumbo Scallops, be sure to also enjoy one of Celestino Ristorante’s Homemade Pastas like the Spaghetti Alla Vongole, spaghetti with clams, or go for the delightful Risotti Porcini e Mascarpone, risotto with porcini mushrooms and Mascarpone cheese, and do not forget to leave room for the Cannoli and an Italian Grappa to make this Date Night one for the books!

Celestino Ristorante is open for Dinner every Monday through Thursday from 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm, every Friday from 5:30 pm  to  11:00  pm,  every Saturday from 5:00 pm to  11:00  pm, and  every  Sunday  from 5:00 pm to 9:45 pm; 141 South Lake Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91101; 626.795.4006; www.CelestinoPasadena.com

 

Culina & Vinoteca: Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills 

Make it a night in Beverly Hills and impress your special date with a modern Tuscan meal from Chef de Cuisine Luca Moriconi at Culina & Vinoteca located in the Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills. Chef Luca will take you on an Italian getaway through his masterpieces beginning with the Antipasti with choices such as the Cozze al Prosecco comprised of black mussels, Prosecco, garlic, tomato, parsley and grilled ciabatta to ignite the fire on this “Buona Notte.” Continue to impress with an assortment of house-made pasta, such as the understatedly refined Gnocchi alla Sorrentina prepared with San Marzano tomatoes, basil, and buffalo mozzarella, or the robust Tortellini Lucchesi served with roasted beef and prosciutto stuffed pasta, thyme, and braised beef sugo. Continuing on to the Secondi, where Chef Luca offers a multitude of proteins from the land and sea, such as the Baccala Ripassato, a dish that centers on fried and braised salted cod filets in an escarole and leek stew with San Marzano tomatoes, shallots and garlic, or the Cinghiale in Umido con Polenta prepared with braised wild boar, polenta Gialla, black olives, Piave Vecchio, and Taggiasca olives. Finally, indulge your date and your inner cheesemonger by enjoying the Quattro Formaggi with mozzarella, Gorgonzola, Pecorino, Taleggio, and San Marzano tomatoes. All of these unique and addictive dishes pair perfectly with the incredible and worldly wine selection that Culina & Vinoteca offers, making this Beverly Hills meets an Italian dream night very real.

Culina & Vinoteca is open for Dinner every Sunday through Wednesday from 6:00 pm to 10:30 pm, and every Thursday through Saturday from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm; 300 South Doheny Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90048; 310.860.4000; www.CulinaRestaurant.com

 

HATCH Yakitori + Bar: 

Make it a yakitori night and opt for a modern izakaya experience that celebrates creativity and quality at HATCH Yakitori + Bar in Downtown’s Financial District. Partner and Executive Chef Daniel Shemtob brings a fresh take on Japanese cuisine to excite and make Date Night memorable in more ways than one. Dive into dinner with your date and try the unique and zestful Beef Tongue Gyoza, a slow braised beef tongue with herbs and special XO sauce, or get cheeky and cuddly over an order of a Half Dozen Oysters, prepared Chilled, Grilled or Fried. HATCH Yakitori + Bar’s signature Sticks are also a must try with choices like the Organic Jidori Chicken Heart, Chicken Breast and Shiso or Seared Ahi Belly among many other incredible pairings! Date Night should be lavish just like the sharable Half Maine Lobster with house pickles, micro cilantro, key lime, tomato, Japanese chili sauce and onigiri rice, or savor the 18 Day Aged Rib Eye, Aspen Ridge beef steak, wasabi mash, potato three ways, and mustard tare. Cocktails are the perfect accompaniment to this Date Night adventure with the Matcha Highball made with Iwai whisky, coconut lemongrass Nigori, lemon juice, honey syrup and matcha powder, or the For Goodness “Sake” prepared with dry sake, Tito’s vodka, lychee juice and pear syrup. Finally, to end the perfect evening savor the sweetness with the Yuzu Panna Cotta made with yuzu kosho, pickled pear and honey dust. HATCH Yakitori + Bar will soon become a regular Date Night for you and your sweetheart!

HATCH Yakitori + Bar is open for Dinner every Monday through Thursday from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm, every Friday from 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm, and every Saturday through Sunday from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm; 700 West 7th Street, Suite G600, Los Angeles, CA 90017; 213.282.9070; www.HatchYakitori.com

 

Mi Piace: 

Head to an Old Town Pasadena classic, Mi Piace, where modern Italian cuisine takes reign in this contemporary, yet homey establishment. The food will delight so take your time and start the evening off with the Escargot, prepared with imported Burgundy Escargot baked with Pernod liqueur, garlic, shallots, fresh parsley and herb butter, served with grilled Ciabatta crostini, or opt for the Cozze con Chorizo, steamed Prince Edward Island black mussels topped with Pamplona Spanish Chorizo, cherry tomatoes and lobster cream sauce. Continue the extravagance with the Osso Bucco di Vitello to share, a 16-ounce slow braised veal shank served with mushroom risotto, or try one of the handmade pastas such as the Pork Ragu Papperdelle made with a slow-braised Moroccan spiced pork ragu and topped with homemade lemon zest ricotta and a touch of Fleur de sel. The Cocktails are not to be forgotten with the sweet and savory Oi’Pas, made with vodka, St. Germaine, strawberry preserves, rose orgeat and fresh lemon juice. Just when you think the night could not be going any better, end an evening of Italian fun with a Chocolate Soup, Mi Piace’s signature bittersweet Belgian flourless chocolate soufflé served with a side of Chantilly cream. Vita Amorosa!

Mi Piace is open every Monday through Thursday 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, every Friday from 11:00 am to 12:00 midnight, every Saturday from 8:00 am to 12:00 midnight and every Sunday from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm; 25 East Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91105; 626.795.3131; www.MiPiace.com

 

Preux & Proper: 

Bringing Southern hospitality to Los Angeles, Owner Joshua Kopel and Executive Chef Sammy Monsour have created a heavenly haven right in the middle of Downtown Los Angeles, which includes two open window dining areas and a beautiful and lively bar. Start this Southern adventure off with the Chicken Liver Pate with Knob Creek whiskey, bacon fat, house piccalilli relish, creole mustard seeds, served with a baguette, or the tasty Squash Blossom Chile Relleno prepared with Humboldt fog, midnight bean succotash, cornmeal crust, and pumpkin seed mole. Preux & Proper also offers sharable Southern plates such as their signature Dungeness Crab Hushpuppies made with house-bourbon barrel-aged green hot sauce, boil spice and charred poblano butter, or make the night really authentic with the Cast Iron Seafood Gumbo Pot served with Louisiana crawfish, tiger prawns, Willapa Bay oysters, PEI mussels, rice and tobacco leeks. Delight and sip on Beverage Director Kassady Wiggins’ Handcrafted Cocktails such as the classic P&P Old Fashioned – 110 Proof, P&P Makers Mark, organic cane sugar and bitters. Laughing over cocktails and savoring Southern fare is truly all you need for a great date, but do not forget to finish off this perfect Date Night with Preux & Proper’s famous Beignets for that final touch of sweetness!

The Preux & Proper Dining Hall is open for Dinner every Thursday from 6:00 pm to 12:00 Midnight, every Friday and Saturday from 5:30 pm to 12:00 Midnight, and every Sunday from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm. The Preux & Proper Barroom is open every Monday and Tuesday from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm, every Wednesday through Saturday from 4:00 pm to 12:00 Midnight, and every Sunday from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm; 840 South Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015; 213.896.0090; www.PruexandProper.com

 

The Raymond 1886: 

For over 40 years, the iconic Craftsman Cottage that is The Raymond 1886 has been delighting diners with both its delicious dishes and refined Old-World charm. There are three beautiful patios; the South Patio with an especially cozy fireplace; the Main Dining Patio, and the Wisteria Patio that each offer a perfect dining experience for a lovely Date Night. Soft lighting, warm flames and a delicious new menu from new Executive Chef Jon Hung include Micro Farmed Oysters with champagne mignonette; Roasted Chicken with creamy truffle polenta, Maitake mushrooms, fried capers and preserved lemons, or the house favorite Strozzapreti prepared with a short rib ragu and citrus gremolata. Executive Chef Hung’s real-life and professional partner new Pastry Chef Alexa Clark could not be any sweeter and her Peanut Butter Mousse with Nutella cremeux, honeycomb, cinnamon condensed milk and lime gel is an absolute must. Any selection from the mouthwatering new menu will pair perfectly with one of 1886’s Handcrafted Cocktails, so try The Forbidden Peach prepared with Cognac, peach purée, peach bitters and rosemary simple syrup, or sip and savor a special selection from the Wine List, making for one truly memorable Date Night at The Raymond 1886 in Pasadena!

The Raymond 1886 is open for Dinner every Tuesday through Sunday from  5:30  to  10:00  pm. 1886 is open every Tuesday through Thursday from 11:30 am  to  12:00  Midnight, every  Friday  and  Saturday  from  11:30  am  to  2:00  am, and on Sunday from 11:30  am  to  12:00  Midnight; 1250 South Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91105; 626.441.3136; www.TheRaymond.com 

Cattle and Claw at Sofitel LA Celebrates Year One and Introduces New Menu

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LOS ANGELES – Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills is commemorating the one year anniversary of Cattle & Claw with the launch of a new menu just in time for the spring and summer months. The laidback, SoCal eatery will be enhancing its offerings with seasonal fare that celebrates the core ingredients which inspired the restaurant’s creation – lobster and beef. Located in the heart of Los Angeles at the intersection of Beverly and La Cienega, Cattle & Claw has quickly become a destination for foodies across the city and beyond as it offers omnivores a place to enjoy two of the world’s favorite foods – lobsters and burgers. With the introduction of its latest menu, guests can enjoy a colorful selection of shareable appetizers and family-inspired entrées among the blooming ambience of the restaurant’s garden patio, decorated with florals.

Diners can begin their meal with a Summer Kebab featuring locally-sourced, freshly grilled veggies and beef, or a Lobster Minestrone made with cannellini beans, tomato and squash. Pizza-lovers can rejoice with a choice of meatball or lobster pizza, and those looking for a pasta dish can enjoy the ravioli stuffed with lobster and mascarpone potato served in a light cream sauce with asparagus and cherry tomatoes. Guests seeking ultimate decadence will be delighted by the Cattle & Claw’s two crowning achievements of the seasonal menu: the Lobster Burger, made with a lobster patty and a grilled beef patty, both smothered in melted brie and lobster aioli, and the Lobster Paella, a SoCal-take on the traditional Spanish dish that is topped with whole Lobster and which can be served as individual portions or family-style.

Locals and travelers alike can experience the best of SoCal’s food and drink scene at Cattle & Claw’s Boozy Brunch. Taking place on the garden patio every Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., and every Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., the restaurant’s terrace features an outdoor DJ, classic menu items, including the popular Lobster Waffle, Lobster Roll, 10oz Lobster and combo towers. The top-notch selection of drinks include fresh jar cocktails, a selection of local craft beer, and the eatery’s exclusive Lobster Bloody Mary.

All you need to join in and celebrate a year of success at Cattle & Claw is a love of beef and lobster mixed with a splash of Southern California-cool. For more information on the restaurant’s new menu, or to make a reservation, please visit www.cattleandclaw.com, or call 1-310-358-3906.
About Sofitel
Sofitel Hotels & Resorts is an ambassador of modern French style, culture and art-de-vivre around the world. Established in 1964, Sofitel is the first international luxury hotel brand to originate from France with over 120 chic and remarkable hotels in the world’s most sought after destinations. Sofitel exudes a refined and understated sense of modern luxury, always blending a touch of French decadence with the very best of the locale. The Sofitel collection includes such notable hotels as Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg, Sofitel London St James, Sofitel Munich Bayerpost, Sofitel Rio de Janeiro Ipanema, Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square, Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour and Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort. Sofitel is part of Accor, a world-leading augmented hospitality group offering unique and meaningful experiences in 4,800 hotels, resorts, and residences across 100 countries.

sofitel.com | accorhotels.com
About Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills
Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills is a stunning hotel in LA offering elegant luxury accommodations and dramatic decor with an ambiance that combines see-and-be-seen excitement and the calm of an urban resort. Ideally situated on the corner of La Cienega and Beverly Boulevard, opposite the Beverly Shopping Center, this West Hollywood hotel is conveniently located near Cedar Sinai Medical Center, Rodeo Drive, Melrose Avenue, and Sunset Boulevard. Discover a unique blend of French fashion mixed with Hollywood glamour at this elegant hotel offering 295 rooms on 10 floors including 28 suites all featuring Sofitel’s luxurious feather top and state-of-the-art technology. Make the most of Sofitel Los Angeles’s numerous onsite amenities from the 2,500-square-foot gym SoFIT to the French cosmetology SoSpa and the Celebrity Hair Salon LeSalon. Have breakfast at our farm-to-table breakfast restaurant Esterel, join us for lunch or dinner at Cattle & Claw, our burgers and lobster SoCal Eatery and finish the night at Riviera 31 Lounge Bar for a night of breathtaking live music and unforgettable cocktails.

www.sofitel-los-angeles.com

Masters of Taste 2019: Mastering it All

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It was a beautiful day – a sold out day – for Masters of Taste 2019. We love the event, as it’s the only one on the field of the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, with fabulous wineries, mixologists, sweet makers and all that FOOD. If that doesn’t tickle your fancy this year we had Chef Michael Hung as the event’s first-time Host Chef. And of course, the money raised goes to charity: Union Station Homeless Services, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Entering the field!

Links to all of the participants are below. These are some of my favorites:

Nosotros barrel aged tequila, Dulce Vida grapefruit, lime and pineapple flavors, Pomp and Whimsy Gin Liqueur in its new golden hue, the chefs at Mrs. Fish that used chopsticks to drop samples into the waiting mouths for some of their guests, Celestino pastas, Wild Roots spirits had some fun “northwest fruit infused” vodkas, My/Mo Mochi green tea flavor, the new Hurricane in a convenient box from buzzbox premium cocktails, The Raymond 1886 cocktails made with Woodford Reserve Bourbon, flavorful Mediterranean food from Spire Works, Akagisan sake, pesto pasta from Prince of Venice, cocktails made with Ki No Bi Dry Gin from the Kyoto Distillery, Kass lemon meringue, all of the tonics by East Imperial, ZYR Russian vodka, the Mignon chocolate fountain, Matcha Matcha green tea rice crispy treats, the plain straight bourbon from American Born, Granville mac and cheese, cocktails from Magnolia House, Lark Cake Shop chocolate cake and everything from Ascension Cellars and Golden Star Vineyards. 

Story in photos here.

Masters of Taste 2019 participating Culinary Masters and Restaurants included:

Sweet Masters: A select group of Los Angeles Top Sweet Masters will showcase an assortment of delectable desserts such as the deliciously scrumptious scratch baked custom cakes and cupcakes from Fantasy Frostings, Lark Cake Shop and Lady M., Chocolatier Mignon Chocolate, My/Mo Mochi Ice Cream, Nomad Ice Pops, homemade premium sorbets from Pop’s Artisinal Creamery,  Porto’s Bakery, SuperCool Creamery, THE Bakery Truck and more.

Beverage Masters Included

Brewmasters: Beverage Masters who specialize in barley and hops will be presenting top-notch ales, lagers, pilsners and more for guests to sample, sip and savor all throughout the event, including Southern California favorites Indie Brewing Company, Iron triangle Brewing, Los Angeles Ale Works, Lincoln Beer Company, MacLeod Ale Brewing Co., Arcadia’s first  Microbrewery Mt. Lowe Brewing Co., San Fernando Brewing Co. and State Brewing Co..

Wineries: A specially curated collection of Wine Masters will be showcasing their finest varietals including premium boutique winery Ascension Cellars, CRŪ Winery, Frisco Cellars, Golden Star Vineyards & Winery, Hitching Post Winery, Kieu Hoang Winery, Anderson Valley’s Navarro Vineyards, San Simeon Wines, Vinemark Cellars, Wrath Wines and more.

Bars and Spirits: Some of L.A.’s top bartenders and cocktail bars will be creating first-rate craft cocktails, including Cameron Masden of The Raymond 1886, Ned Kirby of Magnolia House, and Katie Putterlik of Otoño. Top brands showcasing their finest spirits will also include American Born Moonshine, Buzzbox, Dulce Vida Tequila, KI NO BI Dry Gin, Krafted Spirits, Neustra Soledad Mezcal, Pomp & Whimsy,  SelvaRey Rum, Ventura Spirits, Wild Roots Organic Vodka, Woodford Reserve, ZYR Russian Vodka and many more.

Non-Alcoholic Beverages: A variety of premium non-alcoholic Beverage Masters will also be on hand for those who wish to hydrate, caffeinate or regenerate, such as Boxed Water, Califia Farms Juices and Cold Brew Coffees, Dry Sparkling, East Imperial, Groundwork Coffee, Honeydrop Beverages, Humm Kombucha, Immordl energy elixirs, Matcha Matcha, Zico Coconut Water and more.

Sponsors: Masters of Taste 2019 is made possible through the generous support of our Sponsors, which include HomeStreet Bank, Judith L Chiara Foundation, US Bank, Western Asset Management, Kaiser Permanente, Capitol Group, Citizen’s Business Bank, Chase Bank, Westport Construction, App Dynamics, Pasadena Tournament of Roses, Clear Stream Media Group, Tsutayo Ichioka & Satsuki Nakao Foundation, HKG LLP, Wescom, California Linens and more.

Non Profit

100% of the proceeds from Masters of Taste 2019 will directly benefit Union Station Homeless Services, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to helping homeless men, women and children rebuild their lives. Union Station is part of a premier group of human services agencies in L.A. County that are leading the way to end homelessness in our community. Union Station offers an array of services including street outreach, meals, shelter, housing, case management and career development. In the last three years Masters of Taste has raised over $1.5 Million in support of Union Station’s life-saving programs.

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 16k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

What’s New in Wisconsin Dells: From Lavender to Libations, Adult Offerings Abound

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WISCONSIN DELLS, Wis. – Wisconsin Dells is famous as a family vacation destination. However, with the addition of a new winery, wine bar, lavender farm, outdoor music venue and expanded world-class spa, “The Waterpark Capital of the World!®” is quickly becoming a hotspot for adult travel groups and couples, as well.

Vine and Stein
Local, artisanal wineries have become increasingly popular travel destinations, and the Dells area, in particular, has become a magnet for wine lovers. Home to five wineries – including the state’s oldest and largest, Wollersheim Winery & Distillery – it is also home to the state’s newest. Set to open this spring, Broken Bottle Winery will temporarily source its grapes from the vineyard of parent Baraboo Bluff Winery while its own vineyard fully takes root. The winery will feature two indoor bars, plus a large front porch for sipping outside.

Wisconsin Dells also will welcome a new premium wine bar in the historic downtown area this summer. In addition to wine, Kilbourn Cork will also feature single-malt whiskies, small-batch bourbons and other handmade spirits, as well as local and regional craft brews and seasonal small plate selections – not to mention an outdoor fire pit.

Beer aficionados will find a new microbrewery in the Wisconsin Dells area in 2019. Tumbled Rock Brewery & Kitchen, nestled in the hills near Devil’s Lake State Park, is a family-friendly restaurant and brewery boasting a wood-fired oven, pizzas and pub food. Its stouts, witbiers and IPAs are brewed in-house.

For a little caffeine to balance the libations, guests can visit Bella Goose Coffee’s new roastery located downtown Dells on Eddy Street. Customers can tour the roastery, participate in coffee tasting events and purchase freshly roasted coffee beans. Bella Goose creates a craft coffee experience with pour over coffee, seasonal smoothies and juices, and their signature waffle bar complete with toppings.

Spa Experiences: Pass the Salt, Please
Halotherapy, more commonly known as salt therapy, is a trending treatment in the wellness industry. Spa Kalahari & Salon has added a salt therapy room that incorporates pure organic Himalayan salt and a halogenerator, which changes pure salt into salt vapor. When inhaled, the vapors detoxify the body and boost the immune system.

Similarly, Sundara Inn & Spa now offers a salt therapy treatment room as part of its recently completed 40,000-square-foot expansion. In this salt microclimate, salt crystals line the floor and walls as the halotherapy generator adds to the curative feel. Sundara’s expansion also includes new woodland suites, a dedicated restaurant, meditation spaces, a second outdoor pool, a signature indoor sanctuary, waterfalls, and replicated casts of the Cambrian sandstone bluffs seen along the Wisconsin River.

Love Lavender
Soothing scents, pastels and memorable flavors can be found at the New Life Lavender & Cherry Farm. Open June through September, this family-run farm is tucked away in the beautiful bluffs of the Baraboo Range. Guests can enjoy homemade lavender ice cream and original lavender cherry pies made fresh at the farm, in addition to handcrafted lavender soaps and lotions. Guided tours of the fields are offered, examining the 21 varieties of lavender grown on the farm, as well as Wisconsin’s sustainable agriculture industry.

Bon Appetit
Riverfront Terrace in downtown Wisconsin Dells has created a collective space to showcase the arts and celebrate the Wisconsin River. This hangout spot will open for its first full season this spring and have plenty of live music, food and drinks, and, of course, spectacular views.

The Vue Restaurant located in the River Inn Resort is slated to debut its first season this spring. The Vue is nestled along the Wisconsin River offering 180-degree views of the Sand Stone cliffs along the Upper Wisconsin Dells. A perfect choice to sip a local libation and watch the setting sun.

Hot Rocks – Sear.Sizzle.Savor. is the only restaurant of its kind in Wisconsin, the tiki-themed dining experience empowers guests to cook their food at the table on lava stones heated to 750 degrees Fahrenheit. Dating back to 7,000 B.C., hot rock cooking is one of the oldest styles of cooking.

Innovative Fun
The Wilderness Resort – America’s Largest Waterpark Resort – continues to add fun to its indoor inventory with a trio of rock-climbing walls to their Timberland Playhouse area. The three vary in difficulty and design, giving visitors a wide range of challenges.

The American Resort & Treehouses will offer some natural heat relief this summer with the debut of The Lagoon with 250,000 gallons of naturally filtered water complete with a cascading waterfall, stone grotto, and lazy stream.

For something exciting Knuckleheads Trampoline Park * Rides * Bowling will debut Hologate Virtual Reality (VR). This award-winning VR takes the gaming experience to a new dimension, with zero motion sickness. Suitable for all ages and skill levels.

Tournament Golf Courses
Wild Rock Golf Club at the Wilderness has been selected by the United States Golf Association to host a qualifying round for the 2019 U.S. Open on May 8. This magnificent 18-hole course, built on a former quarry, was designed by Hurdzan-Fry, the same duo who created Erin Hills, site of last year’s U.S. Open. The course incorporates an old stone quarry and a woodland area with a stream, as well as extreme elevation changes. Many holes play up and down the sandstone ridges for which the Dells is famous, and offer views of the quartzite cliffs of the Baraboo Range.

A memorable 9-hole course can be found in nearby Baraboo, adjacent to Ho-Chunk Gaming. Fairfield Hills Golf Course & Driving Range offers golfers the chance to play 3, 9, 12, or 18 holes. Recognizing that many golfers may not have enough time for a full 18-hole round, Fairfield Hills is one of the few Midwestern courses with a 12-hole option. This unique course was awarded the Golf Course Owners of Wisconsin’s 2018 “Golf Course of the Year” ranking in the 9-hole category.

For more information, and to order the 2019 Wisconsin Dells Vacation Guide, go to http://www.wisdells.com.

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