Experience The Taste: Los Angeles Times Culinary Festival at Paramount Studios

Prepare your palates for an unparalleled gastronomic adventure as The Los Angeles Times proudly presents “The Taste,” an annual celebration that transforms the iconic Paramount Studios into a vibrant culinary mecca. Every year, as summer draws to a close, this highly anticipated event invites food enthusiasts, discerning critics, and curious newcomers alike to immerse themselves in the rich, diverse, and innovative food scene of Los Angeles. More than just a food festival, The Taste is a meticulously curated experience, offering a unique opportunity to sample signature dishes from dozens of LA’s most acclaimed restaurants, witness captivating live cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs, engage in insightful panel discussions, and soak in an atmosphere brimming with live music and the sheer joy of discovery.

Nestled within the historic grandeur of Paramount Studios, the setting itself adds an extra layer of magic to this weekend-long extravaganza. Imagine strolling through movie sets, transformed for the occasion into bustling avenues lined with culinary masterpieces, each station offering a bite-sized journey into the heart of Los Angeles’ vibrant dining landscape. From sustainable seafood to innovative pop-up concepts, artisanal cocktails to classic barbecue, The Taste promises a comprehensive exploration of what makes LA a world-class culinary destination. It’s an essential event for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of local flavors, discover their next favorite restaurant, or simply indulge in an unforgettable weekend of exceptional food and drink.

This year’s lineup is nothing short of spectacular, featuring a carefully crafted series of events, each with its own distinct theme, celebrated hosts, and an incredible roster of participating culinary talents. Below, we delve into the details of what awaits you at each captivating session, ensuring you don’t miss a single savory moment of this premier Los Angeles food festival.

Field to Fork: Celebrating Sustainable & Seasonal Dining

Kick off your culinary journey on Saturday, August 31st, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with “Field to Fork,” a session dedicated to the principles of seasonal and sustainable dining. This thoughtfully curated event is hosted by two giants of the culinary world: Russ Parsons, the esteemed Times Food Editor, and Michael Cimarusti, the visionary Chef/Owner of Providence and Chef/Partner of Connie and Ted’s. Their combined expertise sets the stage for a session that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also deepens understanding of responsible sourcing and environmental stewardship in the food industry.

Attendees will be treated to inspiring cooking demonstrations from an impressive roster of chefs, each renowned for their commitment to fresh, local ingredients. Witness the innovative artistry of Ari Taymor (Alma), the masterful baking skills of Sherry Yard (Helms Bakery), and the vibrant Latin American influences of Ray Garcia (FIG). Chef Cimarusti himself will also take the stage, sharing his unparalleled knowledge of seafood. Furthermore, Cimarusti will participate in a pivotal panel discussion titled “Fish or Famine: Sustainability & the Seafood on Your Plate,” moderated by Russ Parsons. This discussion promises to be an enlightening exploration of the challenges and importance of sustainable seafood practices, offering invaluable insights for both professionals and conscious consumers.

Beyond the engaging demos and discussions, “Field to Fork” offers two dedicated wine tasting sessions where expert sommeliers will guide guests through perfect pairings of fine wines with locally-sourced dishes, enhancing the appreciation for the nuances of regional produce. The culinary delights continue with an array of dishes from these exceptional participating restaurants, each embodying the farm-to-table ethos:

Bibigo
Canelé
DOMA
Farmshop
good girl dinette
Hamasuku
Michael’s on Naples
Momed
Mr Chow
Muddy Leek
Nobu
Pizza Antica
RivaBella
Sun Café Organic
The Curious Palate

This session is a must for those passionate about the origins of their food and the future of sustainable gastronomy in Los Angeles.

Flavors of L.A.: A Culinary Homage to the Southland’s Diversity

As Saturday, August 31st, transitions into evening, from 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., prepare for “Flavors of L.A.” This session, hosted by the legendary Jonathan Gold, the Pulitzer Prize-winning Times Restaurant Critic, and Sang Yoon, the innovative Chef/Owner of Father’s Office and Lukshon, is a vibrant homage to everything that makes the Southland a world-class dining destination. Gold’s encyclopedic knowledge of LA’s culinary landscape combined with Yoon’s pioneering approach to cuisine guarantees a session brimming with excitement and discovery.

The evening kicks off with a compelling look at “The Power of Pop-ups,” a panel discussion led by Jonathan Gold. He will be joined by trailblazers in the pop-up scene, including Gary Menes (Le Comptoir), Craig Thornton (Wolvesmouth), and Nguyen Tran (Starry Kitchen), offering a fascinating exploration into the ephemeral yet impactful world of temporary culinary ventures that often define the cutting edge of LA’s dining scene. Following this insightful discussion, attendees can look forward to a series of dynamic cooking demonstrations. Chef Sang Yoon will showcase his distinct culinary philosophy, while Brooke Williamson (Hudson House/The Tripel), Bryant Ng (Spice Table), and Josef Centeno (Baco Mercat/Bar Ama) will each share their unique gastronomic perspectives, from modern American to Southeast Asian and Latin-inspired dishes. The locally-flavored programming will be rounded out with an exciting mixology session featuring Robin Chopra (Corazón y Miel), where the art of craft cocktails takes center stage, complementing the diverse food offerings.

This session is a true reflection of Los Angeles’ melting pot, bringing together a vast array of global and local flavors. Sample from these incredible participating restaurants, representing the breadth and depth of LA’s culinary tapestry:

800˚ Degrees
Angelini Osteria
Border Grill
Bulgarini Gelato
Chakra Indian Cuisine
Chichén Itzá
City Tavern
Mayura
Meals by Genet
Pinches Tacos
Wood & Vine

“Flavors of L.A.” is an essential journey for anyone eager to explore the diverse and ever-evolving tastes that define this incredible city, from casual street food to upscale dining, all within the vibrant atmosphere of Paramount Studios.

Labor Day Block Party: An End-of-Summer Barbecue Bash

Sunday, September 1st, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., brings “Labor Day Block Party,” a festive end-of-summer bash that promises to be a true highlight for barbecue aficionados and comfort food lovers. This lively session is co-hosted by Noelle Carter, the respected Times Test Kitchen Director, and Nancy Silverton, the revered Chef/Co-Owner of Osteria Mozza and Pizzeria Mozza. Their combined expertise ensures a celebration that is both educational and immensely delicious, focusing on the joys of outdoor cooking and communal feasting.

The heart of this block party is an insightful look at the world of barbecue with “Going Whole Hog: Tales from Masters of Competition BBQ.” This compelling panel, led by Noelle Carter, features an impressive lineup of barbecue titans: Ryan Chester (The Rub Co.), Sylvia Curry (Lady of Q), and Neil Strawder (Bigmista’s Barbecue). They will share their secrets, techniques, and fascinating stories from the competitive barbecue circuit, offering invaluable tips for mastering the art of the grill. Attendees will also be treated to a series of delectable cooking demonstrations. Nancy Silverton, celebrated for her innovative take on Italian-inspired cuisine and artisanal breads, will share her wisdom alongside Evan Kleiman, host of KCRW’s Good Food, and Fred Eric (D’Elish), known for his creative and whimsical dishes. A perennial crowd-pleaser, Times Columnist Steve Lopez’s famous Firehouse Cook-off will add an element of friendly competition and hearty flavors to the festivities, showcasing the culinary talents of local firefighters.

This session is the perfect way to embrace the spirit of Labor Day, with a focus on comforting, delicious food enjoyed in a relaxed, festive environment. Indulge in offerings from these fantastic participating restaurants, delivering everything from juicy steaks to classic American fare and international twists on picnic favorites:

BOA Steakhouse
Brite Spot
Café Gratitude
Coni’Seafood
Freddy Smalls: Bar & Kitchen
Got Kosher?
Haven Gastropub
Juan’s Restaurante
Kings Row Gastropub
Pizzeria il Fico
Pono Burger
Rosebud Cakes
Waffles de Liege

The “Labor Day Block Party” is an unmissable event for those who appreciate the robust flavors of barbecue and the convivial atmosphere of a community gathering, all while celebrating the end of a glorious Los Angeles summer.

Cocktail Confidential: The Art and Alchemy of Craft Cocktails

Conclude your weekend at The Taste on Sunday, September 1st, from 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. with “Cocktail Confidential,” an evening dedicated to the sophisticated world of craft cocktails and their seamless integration with culinary artistry. This intriguing session blurs the lines between cooking and bartending, hosted by Betty Hallock, Times Deputy Food Editor; Jessica Gelt, Times Food & Night Life Writer; and the renowned Cocktail Chef Matthew Biancaniello. Together, they promise an immersive experience into the innovation and craftsmanship behind modern mixology.

The evening’s highlight will be a captivating farm-to-glass craft cocktail demonstration presented by Hallock, Gelt, and Biancaniello. They will delve into the creative process of using fresh, seasonal ingredients to craft unique and innovative drinks, revealing the secrets behind balanced flavors and stunning presentations. Taking the concept of food and drink pairings to an exciting new level, some of L.A.’s boldest culinary and mixology duos will share their inspirations. Witness the dynamic collaboration between Michael Voltaggio and Gabriella Mlynarczyk (ink), the artistic synergy of John Sedlar and Julian Cox (Rivera), and the harmonious partnership of Kuniko Yagi and Brandyn Tepper (Hinoki & the Bird). These celebrated pairs will discuss how they conceptualize and execute food and drink combinations that elevate the overall dining experience, providing attendees with a deeper appreciation for the intricate relationship between plate and glass.

“Cocktail Confidential” is a sophisticated exploration of taste, technique, and creative collaboration. Beyond the fascinating demonstrations and discussions, guests can indulge in culinary creations from a selection of exceptional restaurants that perfectly complement the innovative cocktails. The participating establishments include:

Chi Lin
Cliff’s Edge
Jitlada
L&E Oyster Bar
Manhattan Beach Creamery
Mexikosher
The Pub at Golden Road Brewing
Stella Barra
The Cake Mamas
The Corner Door
The Counter
The Park Restaurant
Worldwide Tacos
Zengo

This final session offers a perfect crescendo to The Taste weekend, inviting attendees to explore the cutting edge of L.A.’s beverage scene and discover how master mixologists and chefs work in tandem to create truly unforgettable culinary moments.

Your Essential Guide to The Taste LA

The Taste, presented by The Los Angeles Times, is more than just an event; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven from the diverse threads of Los Angeles’ culinary landscape. It represents an unparalleled opportunity to engage directly with the chefs, critics, and innovators who shape our city’s gastronomic identity. Whether you are a dedicated food critic, an aspiring home cook, or simply someone who appreciates good food and drink, this festival offers something for everyone. From the sustainable focus of “Field to Fork” to the global tapestry of “Flavors of L.A.,” the convivial spirit of the “Labor Day Block Party,” and the refined artistry of “Cocktail Confidential,” each session provides a unique lens through which to experience the very best of LA’s dining scene.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary weekend at Paramount Studios. Immerse yourself in the aromas, flavors, and stories that make Los Angeles a truly world-class food destination. Secure your tickets, plan your sessions, and get ready for a Labor Day weekend filled with unforgettable tastes, insightful conversations, and joyful celebrations of food. The Taste is an experience that will delight your senses and leave you with lasting memories of the vibrant culinary spirit of Los Angeles.