Alicia Whitney, whose SeaLegs Wine Bar is among the winning eateries, poses with Nigel Lythgoe (of So You Think You Can Dance fame) and Wynn Nguyen.
Food Network’s Aarti Sequeira indulges on fine cuisine with host and fellow TV star Simon Majumdar
A sparkling overhead shot of the reception at the Fairmont Newport Beach
Biyi Okubadejo and Denise Manquero
Marín Howarth von Blöm bets it all.
Marín Howarth von Blöm bets it all.
The statues are made out of pewter and plated in 14K gold.
Darren Blair and Shelby LeDuff
Darren Blair and Shelby LeDuff
November 29, 2016 | Parties
O.C.’s dining scene elite gathers for the Golden Foodie Awards.
THE PARTY
An event for foodies organized by foodies is sure to produce two things: a bounty of good tastes and a really good time. And that’s just what this year’s Golden Foodie Awards delivered, thanks to the OC Restaurant Association’s talented team (led by the pretty Pamela Waitt, of course) and the artistry of culinarians from 30-plus restaurants. (Think AnQi, Lillie’s Q, Puesto...)
THE GUESTS
A steady stream of notables strolled the red carpet, including Food Network’s Simon Majumdar, who again served as emcee (that makes twice); The Offspring’s Dexter Holland; and So You Think You Can Dance judge Nigel Lythgoe (and that’s just a few).
THE HIGHLIGHTS
It was in between the grazing and the speak-easy-themed afterparty that the real excitement took place—the awards presentation. Among the top takers: The Ranch (best American cuisine), SeaLegs Wine Bar (best Californian cuisine) and Ironwood (best new restaurant). The biggest honor, however, went to Zov Karamardian, who was named chef of the year. Delicious! –Tina Borgatta
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