Tis the season of grand eating as we have food festivals going off everywhere in L.A. But one of the biggest ones is the American Wine & Food Festival which is celebrating its 25th year and will take place at the Universal Studios back lot this Saturday.

However, if you're thinking $300 is a pretty penny to pay for gorging yourself on the tasty treats and cocktails from the top chefs and wine/spirits purveyors from around the world you can always check out the AWFF's more affordable kick-off party, Red Hot @ Red Seven, at the Pacific Design Center this Friday the 26th from 7-11pm.

For $150, you can enjoy some of the best restaurants in a setting more intimate than that huge back lot. Plus proceeds benefit Meals on Wheels programs in Los Angeles.

Restaurants in the house include Wolfgang Puck's Red Seven, CUT and Sidebar Beverly Hills, CUT Las Vegas, Lawry's The Prime Rib, La Brea Bakery, Montage Beverly Hills, Craft Los Angeles and 8 oz. Burger Bar. Plus there will be plenty o' booze to drink.

Red Hot @ Red Seven
Pacific Design Center
700 N. San Vicente Boulevard
West Hollywood, California 90069 (map)
Tickets: $150

Photo (detail) by dotsara on Flickr.