Event: The Taste returns to Costa Mesa

For those looking for an excuse to have a quick, relaxing and fun weekend giveaway can look no further than Costa Mesa. This year, the LA Times has partnered with Travel Costa Mesa to create hotel and event packages that cater directly to the OC traveler. Packages offer value-driven 1-2 night stays at local hotels like the Ayres Hotel, Crowne Plaza, Westin and more, and include two free tickets to The Taste. Additional information on hotel packages can be found here.

Located in the heart of Southern California’s Orange County, Costa Mesa has been named one of the most walkable cities in OC by Walkscore.com because of its close proximity to the award-winning theater and arts district; access to some of the best shopping in the world, and an unparalleled dining scene, all within a short walk from a variety of branded hotels in the city.

In 2019, Costa Mesa became the only Orange County city two have two restaurants earn a Michelin Star – Taco Maria (whose Chef Carlos Salgado will have a demo at The TASTE; and Hana Re sushi at The LAB).

Hosted by The Times’ Food staff, The Taste in Costa Mesa will take place at The MET over three sessions: one on Friday, Oct. 18 and two on Saturday, Oct. 19. Admission to each event includes unlimited samplings from dozens of local restaurants, premium cocktail tastings, plus demonstrations from renowned chefs and wine experts.

• Friday, Oct. 18, 7 to 10 p.m. L.A. Times Cooking Editor Genevieve Ko will host the opening event featuring Syrian pastry chef Maher Nakhal (Le Mirage Pastry) as he reveals the handcrafted artistry behind his authentic Middle Eastern desserts and French pastries. Critically acclaimed chef Ross Pangilinan (Terrace by Mix Mix) will showcase his eclectic style and Euro-Filipino flavors through a demo of one of his signature dishes, hosted by Times Features Writer Gustavo Arellano. Restaurants include: Filomena's Italian Kitchen, Outpost Kitchen, Puesto, Tackle Box, The Ranch at Laguna Beach and WAVE Gourmet Burgers.

• Saturday, Oct. 19, noon to 3 p.m. Chef Carlos Salgado of Michelin-starred Taco María, will provide a glimpse into his contemporary, Mexican-influenced cooking with L.A. Times Cooking Columnist Ben Mims. Taking the crowd on a wine tour through Monterey County, Rob Baker (Southern Glazer’s) will lead a presentation on Bordeaux-style wine from Carmel Valley’s Bernardus Winery. Restaurants include: Karl Strauss Brewing Company, Mayors Table Pacific Pub & Kitchen, Mesa and Roba Noodle.

• Saturday, Oct. 19, 7 to 10 p.m. The Taste festivities continue on Saturday night as chef Wing Lam (Wahoo’s Fish Tacos) will cook up his legendary Baja-style fish tacos, while Michelin-starred chef Tony Esnault (Knife Pleat) will demonstrate modern, seasonal interpretations of classic French techniques with Times Senior Food Writer Jenn Harris. Restaurants include: Bluegold, Bosscat Kitchen & Libations, CUCINA enoteca, Georgia's Restaurant, Silver Trumpet Restaurant and Bar and Toast Kitchen + Bakery.

Travel Costa Mesa has partnered with nearby hotels to offer special packages that include a pair of tickets to The Taste with each night’s stay for a weekend “Eatcation” to explore more of the area’s diverse food and cultural scene.For tickets go here: https://events.latimes.com/taste/