Image courtesy of LA Times’ The Taste
One of LA’s favorite food festivals for a decade has been Los Angeles Times’ The Taste, held at Paramount Studios each Labor Day weekend. The Taste expanded its reach last year with a second weekend in Orange County. Now, thanks to the success of the O.C. iteration of that gastronomic event, The Taste returns to Costa Mesa on October 18-19.
Savor food demos from Michelin-starred eatery Taco Maria and Michelin-starred chef Tony Esnault of Knife Pleat and toast your friends with a craft cocktail or glass of premium wine as you savor unlimited bites and sips from some of Orange County’s best restaurants.Three different events will comprise The Taste Costa Mesa, taking place at The MET. At the opening event, on Friday, October 18, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., Syrian pastry chef Maher Nakhal of Le Mirage Pastry will discuss his authentic Middle Eastern desserts and French pastries, and chef Ross Pangilinan (of Terrace by Mix Mix) will demo his unique Euro-Filipino flavors as he prepares a signature dish. Participating restaurants include Filomena’s Italian Kitchen, Outpost Kitchen, Puesto, Tackle Box, The Ranch at Laguna Beach and WAVE Gourmet Burgers.
On Saturday, October 19, from noon to 3 p.m., see Chef Carlos Salgado of Michelin-starred Taco María discuss his Mexican cuisine and learn about Monterey County Bordeaux-style wines with Rob Baker of Southern Glazer’s. Participating restaurants include Karl Strauss Brewing Company, Mayors Table Pacific Pub & Kitchen, Mesa and Roba Noodle.
The concluding event, on Saturday, October 19, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., features Wing Lam of Wahoo’s Fish Tacos demoing his acclaimed fish tacos. Michelin-starred chef Tony Esnault of Knife Pleat will demo modern versions of classic French techniques. Participating restaurants include Bluegold, Bosscat Kitchen & Libations, CUCINA enoteca, Georgia’s Restaurant, Silver Trumpet Restaurant and Bar and Toast Kitchen + Bakery.
Tickets are $80-100 and there’s a $10 discount for LA Times subscribers. Tickets can be purchased here. Bon appetit!
