Southern California’s culinary scene is gearing up for one of its most anticipated events of the year – the 2nd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine, returning to Manhattan Village on September 12 and 13, 2025. Founded by Shelby Russell, former Publisher of Los Angeles Magazine, and curated by acclaimed Chef Neal Fraser (Redbird, Vibiana), this two-night extravaganza is poised to once again capture the magic of coastal dining at its finest, pairing world-class flavors with the laid-back elegance of Manhattan Beach.
The festival unfolds as a 40,000-square-foot open-air culinary playground, complete with strolling tastings, live entertainment, and the energy of Los Angeles and the South Bay coming together to celebrate food, wine, and culture. Guests can expect a dynamic Opening Night Celebration on Friday and a Grand Tasting on Saturday, each showcasing 23 chefs, alongside premier wineries, craft breweries, mixologists, and curated non-alcoholic beverage makers.
This year’s all-star lineup of 46 chefs represents the very best of Los Angeles, the South Bay, and beyond. Returning favorites include Manhattan Beach’s own David LeFevre (MB Post, The Arthur J, Fishing with Dynamite, AttaGirl), Chris Park (The Strand House), and Ray Hayashi (Ryla). Iconic names like Mary Sue Milliken & Susan Feniger (Border Grill, SOCALO, Alice B.), Antonia Lofaso (Scopa Italian Roots, DAMA), Raphael Lunetta (Lunetta), and Stephanie Izard (Girl & the Goat) promise to wow guests with bold, unforgettable dishes. Sweet legend Sherry Yard returns with her signature flair, while nationally renowned chefs such as Chris Cosentino (KOAST Maui) and Alex Seidel (Mercantile Denver) add star power. From Michelin-caliber artistry to beloved South Bay comfort food, the lineup reflects the extraordinary diversity of today’s culinary landscape.
But the Manhattan Beach Food & Wine experience is more than just indulgence, it’s about impact. This year’s event benefits Culinary Careers Program (C•CAP), the workforce development nonprofit co-chaired by Marcus Samuelsson. C•CAP empowers underserved teens with job training, life skills, and mentorship, creating pathways to careers in the hospitality industry. Guests can savor every bite knowing their experience helps support the next generation of chefs.
The festival also showcases a stellar roster of partners who elevate the event’s luxury feel. Delta Air Lines serves as the official airline, Infiniti of South Bay the official auto, and westdrift Manhattan Beach the official hotel. Manhattan Village, the event’s home, is joined by premium sponsors including San Pellegrino, Sub-Zero, Wolf & Cove, Chef Works, Southern California Restaurant Design Group, T-Mobile, Lyft, and more, ensuring every detail reflects quality and style.
Tickets are now on sale, with VIP Early Entry at 6 pm and General Admission from 7 to 10 pm. Both evenings are 21+ events, and with the festival’s inaugural year selling out quickly, early booking is highly recommended.
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From stunning coastal scenery to Michelin-level cuisine, the 2nd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine promises an unforgettable weekend where flavor, culture, and community converge. For tickets and information, visit .
Manhattan Beach Food & WineManhattan Village3200 N. Sepulveda Blvd.Manhattan Beach, CA 90266www.ManhattanBeachFoodandWine.com