Jonathan Gold's Gold Standard Returns March 4

LA Weekly's resident restaurant critic Jonathan Gold is ready to announce the lineup for his 4th installment of the Gold Standard on March 4, a culinary tasting event in which 40 Gold-approved restaurants set up shop to serve YOU. That is, if you decide to drop $75 on a ticket or $95 for VIP early entrance and a swag bag (a portion of the proceeds benefit Heal the Bay). Gold Standard 2012 takes place on March 4 from 1-5PM at the Petersen Automotive Museum and tix go on sale January 26.

In typical Gold style, a mix of both high and low cuisines will be on offer, so far here's who is serving: Animal, A-Frame, Baco Mercat, Chego, Chichen Itza, Drago Centro, Guelaguetza, Jitlada, La Casita Mexicana, LaOn, Little Dom’s, Meals by Genet, Mo-Chica, Mozza, Palate Food + Wine, Street, Mezze, Nickel Diner, Lukshon, MB Post, Night + Market, Playa, Providence, Ramen Jinya, Salt’s Cure, Sotto, Spice Table, Starry Kitchen and Short Order, plus more. A strong showing, indeed. As for booze, a release says, "The Wine House will be representing over 30 top-shelf wineries, all pouring their favorite vintages" but no specifics on vineyards. What happened last year? [EaterWire]