The three-hour event was divided into three different ticketed areas: a general area with live entertainment and a few restaurants offering tastings; a substantial liquor lounge with a handful of food brands; and a VIP lounge.
Being that food is a huge part of the Westside culture, it's no surprise that the event was filled with local foodies and folks that drove in to spend the day in Santa Monica.
Let me repeat...it was filled-to-the-brim with folks.
My bloggy friend Monica enjoying OYSTERS :)
While the food I tasted was good, the selection was limited and sometimes repetitive (there were three different taco booths); and although this event was touted as Latino, it was far and large Mexican-food focused...which is good, but, popusas (Salvadorean), Oaxaquen (Southern Mexico), Peruvian Ceviche, and Argentinean parilladas (BBQ) were missing...and how can they be missing when LA has the best? (Hint-hint for the organizers)
I was also disappointed not to see the bigger names in the LA Latino food scene either repping their restaurant, signing their cookbooks, or making an appearance...Maybe next year?
But not all was lost on this gorgeous and beyond hot afternoon: I discovered a few of restaurants (albeit pretty far and not really located in LA metro, but worth the trek of their sampling is representative of the food they serve) - and of course, I have to share my favorite dishes with you!
Ana Lydia
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1. Agua Chile
2. Shrimp Tacos
3. Shrimp Ceviche Tostadas
4. Tapas
5. Tortas Ahogadas
HONORABLE MENTION...
Lets not forget DESSERT...any and all from La Compania de Cafe, which is located in the city of San Fernando! (Blog post/review of my many visits coming soon!)
Ana Lydia
