Masters of Taste Returns to the Rose Bowl

In the before times (pre-covid) Masters of Taste was one of my favorite food festivals and I would look forward to it every year. Unfortunately, the last two years saw it cancelled (for obvious reasons) and I missed hanging out with my friends noshing on food and drink on the field of the Rose Bowl. I’m happy to report that this year on April 3rd, Masters of Taste is back and I have a feeling it’s going to be be better than ever.

There are many reasons I love Masters of Taste, but the number one is that 100% of the proceeds go to Union Station Home Services. In recent years the unhoused population has increased exponentially in Southern California and the pandemic has only made things harder for those in need. For nearly 50 years, Union Station has provided hope to those who need it most through outreach, employment assistance, and housing and has changed the lives of countless individuals. To attend an event where all of the proceeds benefit such a good cause is absolutely wonderful.

And talk about an event! Masters of Taste pulls out all the stops when it comes to food and drink. Featuring over 100 culinary, beverage and dessert masters, it’s an absolute smorgasbord of gastronomic delight. Some of this year’s participants include Gracias Madre, The Raymond 1886, Georgia’s Restaurant and Mignon Chocolate.

Each year, the event is curated by a host chef and this year the honor goes to Chef Vanda Asapahu of Ayara Thai, which happens to be one of my favorite restaurants. Chef Vanda has immersed herself in the cooking of her homeland and is an expert in Thai cuisine. As such, she has gathered three other top Thai restaurants (Holy Basil, Luv2Eat Thai Bistro and Otus Thai Kitchen & Coffee) to create the Songkran Thai SELECT Pavilion in the end zone of the Rose Bowl. Songkran (Thai New Year) occurs in April and the pavilion will represent a traditional Thai sundry general store and Songkran festival. I’m so excited to check it out.

In addition, the 50 year yard line will be home to the House of Suntory Tiny House and Maker’s Mark Lounge which is sure to be delight to the whiskey lover’s attending (i.e., me). That’s another awesome part of Masters of Taste. All drinks are included in the price and it’s the perfect time to go cocktail crazy (just be sure to Uber home).

Masters of Taste returns to the Rose Bowl on April 3, 2022, and limited tickets are available. In fact, VIP tickets are already sold out, but you can still grab general admission for $135. Honestly, that’s a killer deal. Food and drink are included in the price and I guarantee you’ll earn your money back on cocktails alone. And, of course, the best part is that 100% of that admission price goes to Union Station Homeless Services, so you’ll be enjoying delicious food and drink and making a difference in the community. It’s a total win-win.