Discover the flavors of Mexican tradition at Los Angeles’ Asada Fest 2024

The heart of Los Angeles was set ablaze on Saturday, July 13, 2024, as the inaugural Asada Fest made its grand debut in the vibrant Arts District. This culinary extravaganza, presented by Northgate Gonzalez Market, paid homage to the rich legacy of “Los Meros Meros” de la Carne Asada, celebrating over 40 years of tradition and excellence in Mexican cuisine.

A Culinary Celebration

Asada Fest was a feast for the senses, featuring an impressive lineup of renowned chefs and taqueros from Southern California, Baja, and Sonora. Among the culinary luminaries were:

Javier Plascencia, a trailblazer in Baja Med cuisine, whose contributions have earned Baja California recognition in the Michelin Guide for over 20 years. Claudette Zepeda, a Top Chef alum from San Diego, known for her bold flavors and creative dishes that reflect her rich cultural heritage. RobeGrill, a viral sensation from Hermosillo, Sonora, famous for his “Que Chille” social media fame and vibrant, authentic Sonoran flavors. Daniel Castillo of Heritage Barbecue, a California institution in San Juan Capistrano, celebrated for his Chicano-style smoked meats that draw hours-long lines. Yesenia Rios, a graduate of Tijuana’s Culinary Arts School, and Nereida Vejar, a celebrated Cocinera Tradicional from Sonora, renowned for her expertise in butchering whole cows for asada, as featured on Netflix’s Taco Chronicles.

The event was a true celebration of Mexican culinary traditions, with sizzling meat on mesquite grills, drinks from various regions of Mexico, and vibrant Banda music setting the festive atmosphere.

A Feast for the Senses

Thousands of attendees followed the irresistible aroma of mesquite-grilled meat to the Arts District, where they were treated to a fiesta of flavors. The festival featured top-cut taqueros serving juicy, spicy, handmade tacos, including specialties from Tacos La Carreta, Mochomitos, Tacos La Rueda, Macheen, and Tacos Don Cuco de Tijuana.

The culinary delights were complemented by live performances from Mi Banda El Mexicano, DJ Nochenegra, and a Selena Tribute Band. The lively tunes provided a rhythmic backdrop to the culinary fiesta, creating an unforgettable blend of food, music, and dance.

Exciting Entertainment

In addition to the mouth-watering food, Asada Fest offered a variety of entertainment options. Attendees enjoyed live cooking demos, lucha libre matches, and photo opportunities with the legendary luchador Hijo del Santo. The festival atmosphere was electric, with vibrant decorations and a family-friendly vibe that made it a perfect outing for all.

The event also featured tastings of wines from Valle de Guadalupe, tequila, mezcal, beer, and craft cocktails, ensuring that there was something for everyone to enjoy. With all-inclusive food and beverages covered by the ticket price, attendees could indulge to their heart’s content.

Our Advice on the City

Asada Fest was more than just a festival; it was a platform for celebrating the vibrant and diverse Latino community in Los Angeles. The event showcased the traditions, creativity, and flavors of this cultural group, offering a gastronomic journey that highlighted the passion and authenticity of Latino cuisine.

For those planning to visit Los Angeles, we recommend exploring the Arts District, a neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of art, food, and culture. The district is home to numerous galleries, restaurants, and shops, making it a perfect destination for a day of exploration.

For expert travelers, consider timing your visit to coincide with one of the many cultural festivals that take place in the city throughout the year. Events like Asada Fest offer a unique opportunity to experience the rich cultural tapestry of Los Angeles, providing a deeper understanding of the city’s diverse heritage.

In conclusion, Asada Fest was a resounding success, bringing together some of the best chefs and taqueros in Southern California for a celebration of carne asada. The event was a testament to the power of food in bringing people together, creating memories, and celebrating cultural traditions. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Los Angeles offers a wealth of experiences that are sure to delight and inspire.