After much hesitation at ponying up the more than pennies one of the LA Times/Food & Wine Events, we decided that life was too short and delicious to waste on ramen. Out of the handful of themed events, the Secrets from the Kitchen & Cellar seemed to provide the most "bang for our buck" samples chef demos and panels. Off to the Beverly Hilton today ready for bites and booze!
Top Cheftestants and Food Network Stars were well represented in demos, sampling booths, and panels. Tastings were not as spectacular as expected from the some of TV’s cooking competition shows. That’s right, I’m calling you out Colicchio and Conant! The food: the pig and duck were well represented and among the tastiest samples of the day. Highlights included Orecchiette with Lamb Ragout from Osteria La Buca, bites from Ray’s and Starks Bar, Enoteca Drago, the Green and Blacks chocolate sample booth, and biggest suprise of all, the off menu slider from the Counter!
Drinks were available aplenty as well with rows of wines and specialty cocktails. W e answered multiple inquiries regarding our Mint and basil limeades from Veev Acai Spirit booth. You could really get sloshed at this thing!
Overall, some great eats, sips, entertaining cooking demos and good celebrity chef spotting/stalking opportunity. Definitely a delicious day!
Overall, some great eats, sips, entertaining cooking demos and good celebrity chef spotting/stalking opportunity. Definitely a delicious day!
