One of Mexico’s True Asado Specialists Came to LA to Grill a Whole Cow, and More

LA Food Fest gets meaty

Over the years LA Food Fest has gone from a big, bulky festival favorite with tons of people to a much more managed and special affair. This year’s event is absolutely no different, as the team is bringing on a surprising array of local and international talent — including Dante Ferrero from Monterrey. Ferrero is known for his way with grilled and roasted cow, and he’s going to be putting his skills on full display with a half-ton whole animal roast at the event this weekend. His sous chefs for the party? Christian Page and Chris Oh.

Other chefs from Mexico coming to this year’s LA Food Fest include Paco Ruano from Guadalajara, Oso Campos from Tacos Kokopelli, and of course Diego Hernandez who recently opened Verlaine in West Hollywood. That’s to say nothing of Hotville Chicken, the Halal Guys, Locol, and everyone else in attendance too. The event goes down this Saturday, and tickets are still available.

Chicas brings Baja to LA

Speaking of Mexican food, Downtown’s Chicas Tacos is turning one with a big Baja-focused party on Thursday, June 22. From 5 p.m. on, the outdoor event will pull in food and wine types from Mexico’s Valle de Guadalupe, while chef Eduardo Ruiz and Omar Valenzuela make a slew of new tacos for the party. Expect Baja-local wines and craft beer too, with tickets running $15.

The fight is on

Ever wonder if the various crews of Fairfax get along? There’s the Golden State guys, and then there’s Jon & Vinny — but who’s the real Lord of Fairfax? Toothpix tries to find out.

Father’s day beer

Downtown’s Mikkeller is doing it big for Father’s Day with a party hosted by namesake founder Mikkel Borg. The rare beers pour-fest costs $99 and includes a four-course meal to go with the alcohol.

Help the LA Food Policy Council

Want to give back in a food-focused way to the community? The LA Food Policy Council is doing a fundraising dinner at Vibiana on Thursday, June 15 that includes dishes from Redbird, Badmaash, Broken Spanish, Everson Royce Bar, and many more. Tickets are $150, but remember it’s for charity.

MiniBar hits two

Hard to believe, but Hollywood’s diminutive upstairs drinking den MiniBar is turning two years old. The popular casual spot off Franklin is celebrating on Thursday night with $5 drink specials, $2 PBR cans, and a DJ. Get there early.

The return of Riviera

The Sofitel Hotel in Beverly Hills has undergone a recent revamp of their bar and lounge space, called Riviera 31. The new-look addition opened a few days ago and now includes a redone patio, velvet booths and lounge furniture, and an overall clubby sort of vibe.