As a foodie who’s constantly on the hunt for the best restaurants in LA, I can confidently say that the 2nd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Festival delivered an extraordinary culinary experience that left me planning my return for next year. This spectacular food festival showcased why Manhattan Beach has become a premier destination for food lovers seeking the finest dining experiences in Southern California.
The Perfect Setting for Culinary Excellence
Held at Manhattan Village’s stunning 40,000-square-foot outdoor space, the festival transformed into a foodie’s paradise against the breathtaking coastal backdrop that makes Manhattan Beach one of America’s most beautiful cities. The two-night extravaganza brought together 46 of the region’s most celebrated chefs representing the best restaurants in Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach. and beyond.
A Celebration of LA’s Culinary Diversity
What made this Manhattan Beach food festival truly special was its representation of Los Angeles’ incredible culinary diversity. From Chef Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger’s Border Grill to Chef Antonia Lofaso’s Black Market Liquor Bar, each chef brought their unique perspective, creating a tasting journey that spanned continents and culinary traditions.
My Top Three Culinary Discoveries
After sampling countless dishes, three standout experiences captured my palate and my heart:
1. Uchi West Hollywood – Sashimi Perfection
Chef Joel Hammond from Uchi West Hollywood absolutely stole the show with the most flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth sashimi I’ve ever experienced. Each piece was a masterclass in precision and flavor, showcasing why Uchi consistently ranks among the best restaurants in Los Angeles.
2. Girl and the Goat – Exceptional Ahi Tuna
Chef Stephanie Izard’s Girl and the Goat presentation featured an absolutely divine Ahi Tuna preparation that exemplified why this Chicago-born, LA-expanded restaurant has garnered such critical acclaim. The perfectly seared tuna with its creative accompaniments demonstrated the innovative spirit that makes this one of the best restaurants in LA for adventurous diners.
3. Jemma, Ospi, Jame – Comfort Food Excellence
Chef Jackson Kalb delivered comfort food perfection with a mouthwatering Penne Vodka pasta that proved simple ingredients, when executed flawlessly, can create extraordinary experiences. The rich, creamy sauce and perfectly al dente pasta represented the elevated Italian cuisine that has made these restaurants essential stops for anyone exploring LA’s diverse culinary landscape.
Beyond the Food: A Complete Experience
The festival offered much more than exceptional dining. Premium spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, and curated non-alcoholic beverages complemented the culinary offerings. Live entertainment added energy to the coastal atmosphere, while the festival’s partnership with local businesses like westdrift Manhattan Beach and Manhattan Village created a true community celebration.
Supporting Culinary Education
What elevated this event beyond a simple food festival was its partnership with the Culinary Careers Program (C•CAP), a workforce development nonprofit providing underserved teens pathways to restaurant and hospitality careers. Knowing that our indulgence supported culinary education across 186 schools nationwide added meaningful purpose to every delicious bite.
Looking Forward to Next Year
As I lick my lips reflecting on this incredible weekend, I’m already marking my calendar for the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine. Whether you’re a local foodie or visiting from out of town, this festival perfectly captures why Los Angeles, and the surrounding cities continue to establish itself as a global dining destination.
For updates on next year’s Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Festival and recommendations for the best restaurants in Los Angeles, follow my blog for insider tips and culinary adventures throughout LA’s diverse dining scene.
