LA’s James Beard Highlight Reel: Dave Beran Dunking on Haters, Kato’s Historic Run and Providence Aging Like Fine Wine. Plus, Zach Brooks on 10 Years of the “Terrible Idea” That Became Smorgasburg LA.
About this episode
Karen Palmer and Luca discuss the highlights of the James Beard Awards and the evolution of Smorgasburg LA with guest Zach Brooks.
Karen Palmer joins Luca to break down Los Angeles’ huge night at the 2026 James Beard Awards, including wins for Dave Beran, Providence and Kato, Holbox’s heartbreak, LA’s four-year Best Chef: California streak and what the results reveal about the city’s growing culinary dominance. They also trade recent eats from Mish Deli, Rustic Canyon, Cambria’s Sea Chest, Guelaguetza, Delicious Pizza, Estrano Verano and Maydan before debating the glamorous but isolating world of private chefs, Stephanie Breijo’s James Beard Media Award, Condé Nast’s lawsuit against the revived Gourmet and the New York Times giving its first four-star review outside New York. Then, Smorgasburg LA General Manager Zach Brooks looks back on 10 years of the Sunday food market he initially called a “terrible idea,” its role in launching Tacos 1986, Bridgetown Roti, Bub and Grandma’s, Wanderlust Creamery and more, and the former vendors returning for its June 21 anniversary celebration. -- Donate to Luca's Soccer Without Borders fund
People in this episode
Host: Luca
Guests: Karen Palmer, Zach Brooks
Topics covered
- James Beard Awards
- Los Angeles culinary scene
- private chefs
- Smorgasburg LA
- food market history
- restaurant highlights
- chef awards
Keywords
- James Beard
- Los Angeles
- culinary awards
- food market
- restaurant
- Smorgasburg
- private chefs
- food trends
- Zach Brooks
- Karen Palmer
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: James Beard Awards, Condé Nast, New York Times, Smorgasburg LA
Products: Tacos 1986, Bridgetown Roti, Bub and Grandma’s, Wanderlust Creamery
Places: Los Angeles, California, Mish Deli, Rustic Canyon, Cambria’s Sea Chest, Guelaguetza, Delicious Pizza, Estrano Verano, Maydan
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- Quiet Quitting Michelin. The Bear Is Low-Key Back. Top Chef Is Washed. And Eddie Huang vs. The New York Times.
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