L.A.’s Top Chefs Head to the Pier

Wander around the iconic Santa Monica Pier and enjoy the endless tastes and smells of L.A.’s finest culinary masters at Santa Monica Grand Tasting this weekend. Sip local wines, breathe in the salty air, and chat with culinary influencers as live music and DJs drown out screams from the rickety rollercoaster.

Border Grill Truck
Border Grill Truck

The celebration’s ultimate food and beverage pairings menu was created by 100 of L.A.’s top chefs, including Susan Feniger of Border Grill, Raj Dixit of Stonehill Tavern, Adam Fleischman of Taco Teca, Kimmy Tang of 9021PHO, and David Hands of Bouchon. More than 50 vendors are slated to appear daily, including favorites such as Coast to Coast Cuisine, Fresh Brothers, Scratch Bar, Flamme Pizza Napoletana, Ogden Hospitality, Hudson Valley Foie Gras, St. Patisserie Chocolat, Mastro’s Steakhouse, Ace Academy, Q Kabob, Sugar and Spyked, Eve Chocolatier, MyTable, My World on a Plate, Forking Good Café, Organic Corner, Rooftop Lounge, and more.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a real L.A. summer event without food trucks and fruity cocktails. Don’t miss the Border Grill Truck and Phillyfornia dishing out tasty food, before hitting the after-party at Hotel Erwin.

Phillyfornia
Phillyfornia – Straight-Cut Fries with Cheese Wiz and Rib Eye
Border Grill Tacos
Border Grill – Carnitas Tacos

Proceeds from the Grand Tasting go to the Chill Foundation, an organization that works to change underprivileged youths’ lives through the use of board sports. The Chill Foundation provides opportunities for under-served adolescents from the ages of 10 to 18, helping them build self-esteem and life skills through snowboarding, surfing, skateboarding, and even paddle boarding. Since 1997, the foundation has changed the lives of 1,000 youths in Los Angeles, and over 20,000 nationwide. During a typical six-week-long program, participants experience the euphoria of boarding while also learning patience, persistence, responsibility, courage, respect, and pride.

If you’re looking for something to do that’s both fun and supportive of a great cause, head to Santa Monica and check out the Grand Tasting! The event takes place on Saturday, June 13 and Sunday, June 14. Doors open at 7 p.m. for VIP; 8 p.m. for general admission. For more information and tickets visit: http://www.santamonicagrandtasting.com/

Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica Pier