TASTE OF THE RAMS 2018

Monday, November 5, 2018
6:00 P.M.

2018 Presenting Sponsor

Taste of the Rams 2018

The third annual Taste of the Rams event presented by Don Lee Farms was held on Monday, November 5th, at the Sportsmen’s Lodge in Studio City. Todd Gurley II, Honorary Chair and the NFL’s reigning Offensive Player of the Year helped raise more than $170,000 for the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank.

In three years, this event has raised nearly half a million dollars. Every dollar donated to the Food Bank provides four meals to our neighbors in need, so Taste of the Rams has provided almost 2 million meals to our neighbors in need.

This year’s event featured 12 of Los Angeles’s top chefs including Steve Samson of SOTTO and Rossoblu, Neal Fraser of Redbird and Vibiana, Ted Hopson of The Bellwether, and Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken of Border Grill.

2018 Photo Gallery

A group of people, including several wearing football jerseys, pose for a photo at what appears to be a sports event supporting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. Some hold footballs, and there are both adults and children present, along with a few cheerleaders visible on the side.

A woman wearing glasses and an apron, representing the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, smiles as she holds up food wrapped in paper. Trays filled with similar items are in front of her, while others mingle in the background at this bustling indoor event.

A man in a dark suit stands smiling and holding a microphone on stage. The backdrop features the word "FOOD" partially lit, and a podium with the word "TASTE" before him. This vibrant scene is set at an event for the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, celebrating their impactful work.

A man in a cap signs autographs for a crowd of fans and media personnel at what seems to be an indoor event supporting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. People surrounding him take photos with their phones, while a cameraman captures the bustling scene.

A man in a chef's uniform and a woman in a blue blouse are smiling and posing together at an indoor event for the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, standing proudly in front of a table filled with small burgers on wooden platters.

A man in a suit stands smiling at an indoor event, wearing a badge labeled "staff." Behind him, groups of people socialize as colorful banners for the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank and "Taste of the NFL" adorn the walls. The setting is casual yet organized.

Two chefs wearing aprons and hats serve food at a Los Angeles Regional Food Bank event. One chef holds a plate with appetizers, while the other stands beside him behind a table with more dishes. People are gathered in the background, enjoying the culinary offerings.

Taste of The Rams - Presented by Don Lee Farms

Five men in matching sports jerseys pose indoors, standing side by side in front of a beige wall and a sconce. They are casually dressed, wearing jeans and sneakers. Representing the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, their jerseys feature a blue and gold color scheme with numbers on the front.

A football player in a Rams jersey autographs a football for a man in a suit at an indoor event supporting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. Other attendees and event displays are visible in the background, highlighting the community's effort.

At a crowded party, a man in a gray shirt and suspenders enjoys food reminiscent of Los Angeles Regional Food Bank offerings. Around him, guests hold items like a football and a red folder, while the dimly lit room glows softly under the chandelier above.

At a vibrant food event, two women beam with joy. One, donning an apron, holds a plate of appetizers and a whipped cream dispenser. Her friend stands beside her in a black jacket and T-shirt. The lively scene could easily be part of a Los Angeles Regional Food Bank gathering with others blurred in the background.

A smiling person stands indoors wearing a blue and yellow sports jersey with the number 22, supporting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. They are in a room with beige walls, patterned carpet, and a dark blue draped table in the background.

Two chefs wearing aprons stand smiling behind a table laden with gourmet food, small pumpkins, and flowers. They're collaborating with the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. In the background, a person looks at a phone.

Five individuals are standing in a row, smiling, and proudly wearing white and navy sports jerseys with numbers 24, 43, 30, 34, and 88. They pose in front of a gray backdrop adorned with logos from the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank.

A football player in a Rams jersey stands on stage near a podium at an event for the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. A cheerleader and another person are visible, clapping, with a silver curtain backdrop displaying the word "FOOD.

A group of five people stands behind a table adorned with decorative flowers and trays of food samples. They're smiling, radiating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere at an event supporting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank.

A football player in a jersey signs a football for two young fans wearing team jerseys at the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank event. They are indoors, with other people and tables visible in the background.

A person in a white and blue sports jersey stands in a dimly lit room adorned with chandeliers, holding a slice of pizza and a phone. The lively gathering, which supports the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, buzzes with energy as others mingle in the background.

A chef wearing an apron smiles and points at a plate of food in his hand, showcasing a dish prepared for the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. A football labeled "Taste of the NFL" is displayed in the foreground. Another person stands nearby at a table with cooking ingredients. The room is warmly lit.

A group of children with footballs are gathered around two adults at a bustling indoor event. One child is holding a helmet, while others proudly show off signed footballs, all part of a community day supporting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank.

In a crowded room brimming with excited fans and media, a sports player wearing a cap and jersey with "30" signs autographs. Camerapersons and onlookers capture the moment, as he shares stories about his recent visit to the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank.

A man in a Los Angeles Rams jersey holds a football while posing with a woman in a black dress. They're indoors at an event supporting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, with a TV screen displaying the words "UMI HANASUKE" in the background.

Three men in aprons and caps are smiling and preparing food in a kitchen setting. One is holding a tortilla while proudly wearing a "Los Angeles" T-shirt, embodying the casual and cheerful spirit of the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank.

A person poses with a costumed mascot resembling a ram at an indoor event supporting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. The mascot sports a football uniform, while another individual in the foreground snaps a photo on their smartphone. Attendees and various event elements are visible in the background.

At a lively event supporting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, a man in a football jersey signs a football for another. The crowd is engaged, watching closely as multiple guests mingle in the spirited atmosphere.

Two chefs in white uniforms and dark aprons smile for the camera, standing proudly side by side in a kitchen filled with cooking supplies. Their passion shines through as they support the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, dedicated to nourishing their community.

In a bustling indoor setting with chandeliers overhead, a man in a blue sports jersey and cap smiles warmly as he signs a football helmet. He's engaging with the crowd at an event supporting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank.

Two women smile, holding autographed footballs at an indoor event benefiting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. The setting is lively, with delicious food and guests mingling in the background. The footballs proudly display "Taste of the Rams.

A woman with short curly hair chats with a man in a cap at a booth, surrounded by small plates of food and a football-shaped object. Nearby, another man with gray hair stands watchfully. The lively setting hints at an indoor event like the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank gathering.

A man and a woman pose for a selfie at an event supporting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. The woman holds a football with the word "TASTE" on it, as people mingle in the background near a bar illuminated by blue lighting.

A woman in a floral blouse holds a plate of food, smiling at the camera next to a chef in a white shirt and apron. The chef, supporting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, is serving dishes on a table with a navy tablecloth featuring various food items. They stand in an elegantly decorated room.

Four autographed footballs are displayed in opened boxes on a surface, each partially covered by its box lid. A helmet and a bottle from the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank are visible in the background, adding a touch of community spirit to the scene.

A chef in a white shirt and apron is preparing food at a table covered with dishes. A group of people, some holding phones, watches him intently. Nearby, autographed footballs in red boxes add to the excitement of this Los Angeles Regional Food Bank event.

A smiling woman holding an NFL microphone stands in front of a table where chefs prepare food at a culinary event benefiting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. She wears a black jacket, exuding enthusiasm as she captures the vibrant atmosphere.

Two chefs wearing aprons stand at a table brimming with cooking ingredients, supporting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. One chef holds a squeeze bottle, the other tweezers. They smile at the camera, surrounded by dishes and utensils on a blue checkered tablecloth.

Three people in black attire smile at the camera. The person in the middle holds a small burger, showcasing their culinary skills. Dressed in chefs' uniforms, including aprons and bandanas or caps, they stand proudly before a table of food items at the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank.

A family of three is smiling at a social event supporting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. The man and young girl wear matching sports jerseys. The woman, in black, holds a drink and carries a brown handbag. They're standing by a high table in a room with chandelier lighting.

Two men in NFL jerseys stand indoors, one holding a football, as they pose for the camera with friendly gestures. The room is dimly lit with warm lighting and ornate wall fixtures, creating a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of a Los Angeles Regional Food Bank fundraiser.

A man in a suit holds a football inscribed with "Taste of the NFL," supporting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. In the background, people gather at a social event in a well-lit room adorned with chandeliers.

A man in a suit hands a microphone to a costumed ram mascot at a podium emblazoned with "Taste of the Rams," supporting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. Cheerleaders stand in the background against a shimmering silver curtain, adding to the festive atmosphere.

A group of people in football-themed attire stands on stage for the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank event. Two cheerleaders in navy and gold outfits hold pom-poms, while a man in a number 34 jersey raises his hands. A podium with a "Taste of the NFL" sign is positioned upfront.

A group of people in matching jerseys and jeans, along with a lively mascot, pose for a photo on stage representing the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. Cheerleaders in blue outfits stand on either side, while someone captures the moment in the foreground.

A group of young children and adults pose together, some wearing Rams football jerseys, in support of the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. The children hold footballs, and everyone is smiling, creating a joyful and sporty atmosphere.

A group of cheerleaders, older men, sports players in uniforms, and children stand together with joy. Some kids hold sports balls as they smile proudly on a stage or platform, united in support of the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank's community initiative.

A person is signing a sheet on a table at a memorabilia display supporting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. The exhibit features framed jerseys and photos of athletes, including Eric Dickerson and Todd Gurley. Other people are in the background, in a dimly lit room with spotlights.

A cheerful group, including cheerleaders, children, and adults in football jerseys, gathers on a stage. Some hold footballs as they stand in front of a Los Angeles Regional Food Bank banner. The mood is lively and friendly.

A person with long blonde hair holds a rugby ball in a party setting at an event supporting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. They stand in front of an illuminated bar, where people mingle amidst the lively ambiance and dim lighting.

Cheerleaders in blue and silver outfits stand beside a football player in a jersey walking on stage, flashing a peace sign. Two other players and a man in a cap from the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank are at a podium labeled "Taste of the Rams.

At a bustling event for the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, a man in a suit holds a football beside a smiling young girl in a denim jacket and floral dress. Behind them, people mingle energetically, united by the spirit of giving.

A group of people on stage participates in a "Taste of the Rams" event, with some wearing football jerseys. One person in a suit holds a microphone at the podium, highlighting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank initiative. The orange-lit backdrop enhances the scene's excitement.

A smiling man and woman pose together at a Los Angeles Regional Food Bank event. The man, holding a drink, sports a blazer over his t-shirt, while the woman dazzles in a patterned outfit. In the background, other guests mingle near the bar.

Four people smiling and holding sports memorabilia, including framed items related to Kobe Bryant and Clayton Kershaw. The display, featuring a Lakers jersey and more, takes place in a well-lit room supporting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank's efforts to combat hunger.

Two men standing and smiling at an event for the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, one wearing a chef's uniform with tattooed arms, and the other in a suit and tie. Both are pointing at each other in front of a bar area with glasses and dim lighting.

A costumed sports mascot wearing a jersey poses with four cheerleaders in blue and silver uniforms holding pom-poms. They are indoors on a wooden floor with people in the background, supporting an event for the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank.

(click to enlarge)

Event Details

When

Monday, November 5, 2018
General Reception: 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Where

Sportsmen’s Lodge
4234 Coldwater Canyon Avenue, Studio City, 91604

(complementary valet parking)

ATTENDANCE, SCOPE & RECOGNITION

More than 350 guests are expected to attend this exclusive event, featuring some of LA’s best chefs.

2018 Honorary Chair

Pro Bowl running back Todd Gurley II

This year’s event will include Rams players, cheerleaders, and Rampage, the Ram’s mascot.

Featured Chefs

Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger

Border Grill

Taste of the Rams Mary Sue and Feniger Susan Millikan

Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger are co-chef/owners of the popular, critically acclaimed Border Grill restaurants serving modern Mexican food in Los Angeles, LAX Airport, The Huntington, and Las Vegas at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino and The Forum Shops at Caesars.

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Travis
Flood

Alexander’s Steakhouse

With more than 25 years of experience managing kitchens from Michelin-starred fine-dining establishments to Venetian osterias to modern California restaurants, Chef Travis Flood found a new home at Alexander’s Steakhouse.

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Neal
Fraser

Redbird

Neal Fraser, chef and owner of multiple restaurant concepts in Los Angeles, started his career in the kitchen at age 20.

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Ted Hopson

The Bellwether

Inspired by Co-Owner and Executive Chef Ted Hopson’s own nostalgic memories of cheerful family meals, The Bellwether in Studio City, CA puts forth an eclectic New American menu.

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Jessica Largey

Simone

After working alongside world-class chefs in notable restaurants across the country, Los Angeles native Jessica Largey returns home to combine her experience, perseverance, and know-how at Simone, her first restaurant venture.

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Pearl District

Pearl District

Pearl District Restaurant is a collaboration between owner, Peyman Afshar, and executive chef, Richard DeMane.

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Christena Quinn

Brack Shop Tavern

DTLA bar and restaurant Brack Shop Tavern has quickly become a neighborhood staple since opening in September 2016, largely due to the hospitality of Chef Christena Quinn, who has helmed the kitchen since day one.

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Steve Samson

SOTTO and Rossoblu

Chef Steve Samson might not have realized he was fated for a life spent in kitchens, but his family and upbringing all led to that inevitable result.

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Adam Sobel

Cal Mare

Adam Sobel is the Chef and Partner at The MINA Test Kitchen in San Francisco, which opened in July 2015. The first-ever test kitchen for MINA Group, the space serves as the R&D laboratory where the menu evolves to showcase a variety of cuisines and techniques through a series of pop-up dinners.

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Travis Strickland

Baltaire

A chef in a white uniform stands in a kitchen with a calm expression, representing the heart of the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. The background shows shelves with containers and a brightly lit workspace, bustling with purpose and community spirit.

Marking his first foray onto the Los Angeles dining scene at Baltaire, Travis Strickland has crafted a contemporary menu that redefines the traditional steakhouse.

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Yoya Takahashi

UMI

Born and raised in Kyoto, Japan, Executive Sushi Chef Yoya Takahashi moved to Los Angeles with dreams of becoming an actor like his grandfather before him in Japan.

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Benjamin Udave

Culinary Consultant

A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu in Pasadena, Benjamin had the privilege to apprentice under Chef Kyle Connaughton – Former Head Chef of the Fat Duck in London.

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