Break out the Stretchy Pants–it’s LAFW Time!

Today is the night before Christmas for every foodie in Los Angeles because tomorrow marks the first official first day of the four day food extravaganza—The Los Angeles Food and Wine Festival!

There are events located all over the city but the main hub is in Downtown Los Angeles on Grand Avenue between first and second street.

Although these 4 days are a holiday in my heart, they are unfortunately not a holiday at work so I will need to choose wisely. Here are my must attend events! I hope to see you there!!

Thursday:  Giada’s Festa Italiana (7-10PM; $195 GA/$250 VIP)

Hosted by the Food Network star Giada de Laurentis along with some of the city’s most renowned Italian chef’s including Gino Angelini (Rivabella), Fabio Viviani (Café Firenze), and Ori Menashe (Bestia). It’s your chance to get a taste of Italy.

Friday: Asian Night Market  (7:00-10:00PM, $125):

Hosted by Iron Chef Morimoto and featuring the tastes of Thi Tran (Starry Kitchen), David Lefevre (Water Grill) , Ricardo Zarate (Picca) and More!

Saturday: Lexus Presents: Grant Achatz Cocktail Demonstration (3:30-4:45PM, $50):

Spend an hour learning and tasting the most fascinating cocktails with the help of Chef Grant Achatz and his award-winning Beverage Director Charles Joly.

Sunday: Lexus Live on Grand with Curtis Stone (7:00-10:00 PM $250 GA/$350 VIP).

This is the culmination of the weekend featuring both fantastic tastings by Chef’s like Rick Bayless (Red O), Susan Feniger (Street Food), Michael Mina (Michael Mina), plus a live music performance by Gavin Degraw.

PS-this weekend is not just about gorging! It’s also about helping eliminating our children’s hunger problem. Check out  www.NoKidHungry.org. to justify your weekend of gluttony.