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The 'Big Poppa' of Food Festivals: AWFF is September 25th
One of the many perfect bites from last year's AWFF (Lindsay William-Ross/LAist)
One of the many perfect bites from last year's AWFF (Lindsay William-Ross/LAist)
To some, Wolfgang Puck is the "big poppa" of the Los Angeles food scene, with his decades of restaurant success and international profile. It's only fitting, then, that the festival he has organized for the past 28 years is considered the "big poppa" of food and wine events.The American Wine and Food Festival, which benefits Meals on Wheels, is an annual extravaganza of big-name chefs from Los Angeles and all over the country. Guests stroll the cobblestone streets of the Universal Studios backlot and can sip from drinks offered by a multitude of wine and spirits purveyors and sample generous tastings from dozens of renowned chefs representing premiere eateries from around the country.
Local talent we're looking forward to seeing and whose eats we're eager to sample include Gino Angelini of Angelini Osteria, Thomas Keller of Bouchon, David Myers of Comme Ca, Nobu Matsuhisa of Nobu, and Nancy Silverton and Dahlia Narvaez of the Mozza restaurants, among the many other celebrated chefs from other cities and states.
Over the past almost three decades, AWFF has raised over $15 million for Meals on Wheels. We will not pretend this isn't a big ticket event--it's the "big poppa" and it comes with a price tag to match; tickets are $300 per person.
One of the most enjoyable food events of the year, the sprawling layout means that there is room to meander, few lines at any given table--even the Bouchon raw bar--and there are lots of places to sit down to eat, drink, and socialize. The early fall evening timing means that you won't likely be sweltering, and since it runs from 5 to 11 p.m. you can take your time and eat and drink your fill without feeling rushed. (But, a word of advice: Ladies, resist the urge to wear those spiked heels...remember we said cobblestone?) The AWFF provides a jubilant, festive atmosphere that includes the chance to say hello to the chefs and beverage representatives, as well as enjoy live music and the event's overall spectacle.
Previously
- A Taste of the American Wine and Food Festival (2009)
- AWFF Red Hot @ Red Seven (2008 Pre-Party)
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