By Jennifer Eden
One of the culinary world’s most anticipated evenings of the year is almost upon us, with chefs, sommeliers, food critics and fine-wine lovers gearing up for the 40th anniversary of An Evening on the Beach, the annual St. Vincent Meals on Wheels of Los Angeles fundraiser.
Held each year at the Jonathon Beach Club Santa Monica, the event draws the best in the region; this year’s lineup including a broad range of decadent bites, vintner tastings and specialty cocktails.
“The oceanside celebration is a truly unique food and wine experience, allowing guests to enjoy an evening of delicious dishes, glass in hand and toes in the sand,” organizers said.
The event takes place Thursday, Sept. 14, and is balanced with all elements of the earth.
“There will be dishes spanning land, air, and sea, as well as some vegetarian and vegan options to suit every palate,” organizers explained.
Expect Creekstone sirloin with spicy chimichurri and a caramelized fresh corn salad with wild arugula and mustard vinaigrette from Chef Hilary Henderson at CUT Beverly Hills; grilled pork belly with zucchini and farro from Chef Denis Crutchfield at Craft; and 8-hour braised short ribs, served with horseradish potatoes, garden vegetable fricassee and chive crème fraiche from The Jonathan Club’s Jason McClain.
“Air” dishes include quail served with a fermented plum sauce; and smoked duck and grilled corn quesadillas, topped with a tipsy tequila lime sauce.
From the sea grilled octopus, tuna sushi, Thai lobster rolls and fresh oysters on the half shell are on the menu, along with a Siberian caviar dish that is to die for.
“In addition to all those dishes, guests will be treated to a mozzarella bar from DiStefano cheeses. Mimmo Bruno and family will be serving their signature selection of ricotta, mascarpone, burrata, stracciatella and more,” organizers said. And then, there’s dessert, fine wine, and music.
Tickets are $185, including parking, and are on sale now through the event website www.eveningonthebeach.com.
