By: Pamela Simpson
Festival of Arts turned Festival of Foods, for the Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Laguna Food Tasting, followed up by Chef Masters of Orange County. Both events were over the top amazing. However, the Laguna Food Tasting was especially enjoyable for me due to the large turnout of friends and neighbors, and of course, our local restaurant Chefs featuring the best of their cuisine.
The food presentation was stunning! An oversized cheese and charcuterie board from Nirvana Grille visually comes to mind. Have you heard of the new restaurant opening soon called Tango? I am definitely looking forward to it after trying Chef Leandro Bongarra’s savory Tapas! Carmelitas, Starfish, Surf & Sand, Rumari’s, and Nicks, were just a few of the attendees at this years event. Oak had the tastiest crispy tuna tacos that were perfectly bite size. I consumed a few of those in-between sampling a variety of flavor and style, as I wandered through the maze of food heaven.
Throughout the Festival Grounds, there were many local businesses representing and supporting this event. Hand & Stone was offering chair massages. Our local Fire Department were distributing free cookies and hats. I also scored a really cool hat and pen from the kind souls at the We Love Laguna Beach booth. Artists such as Crodas were present, featuring beautiful paintings of surrealism, fantasy, and magic. Deborah Paswaters studios presented a live body painting that was very entertaining to watch transform. The VIP section served excellent wine in addition to Tequila tastings by Comisario. I really enjoyed the different flavors of this Handcrafted, Double Distilled, cold filtered Tequila from the Jalisco Highlands. I loved chatting with the talented staff from our local restaurants, such as Executive Sous Chef Monique Djerf from the Rooftop Lounge and Comedor. Not only did she have a dynamic personality and smile, but her Ceviche was recognized as the best in Laguna.
Our favorite local radio station, KX 104.7 provided great music that contributed to the overall energy of the event. Towards the end of the night, a classic 90’s band rocked the stage and attracted attendees to get up and dance. Overall, it was a really fun, local event to attend. Also, a great way to remind us of what outstanding food options we have here, as well as the talented artists who work hard to bring those great taste to our charming little village. A big hats off to Laguna’s Chamber of Commerce for organizing such an enjoyable and successful event!
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