Every year most of L.A.’s best chefs gather in a park in Culver City to feed needy children — but they do it by feeding those who can afford to pony up for a tasting fundraiser, and all the money goes to Share Our Strength, a national organization devoted to ending childhood malnutrition and hunger. This year’s June 6th shindig is looking to be an A-list a foodie event — and unlike the big Puck-driven American Wine & Food Festival, it’s casual, family friendly and relatively affordable.

We went to last year’s event, and it was remarkable for both its mellowness (especially on the early end) and the quality of its food. This year you can expect food from Hatfield’s, Cuidad, Street, Bistro LQ, the Foundry and many more that have not yet been announced. Plus there will be all sorts of wine to try.

Besides the tastings (which are included in the admission), there will be an auction with some pretty impressive donations this year, including a private party with Ludo Lefebvre’s new Ludo Fried Chicken Truck, a script review and meeting with Brett Ratner’s Rat Entertainment, and lots of hotel and restaurant extravaganzas.

Taste of the Nation Los Angeles
Sunday, June 6, 1 – 4 p.m.
Media Park, Venice Blvd. at Culver Blvd., Culver City
Admission $100, VIP admission $150, kids admission $25
Buy tickets here: tasteofnationla.com