As the sun sets each day in the Coachella Valley, the annual festival crowd splits in two: those prepping for the next musical performance, and those chasing a break from the buzz. For the latter half, land artist Jim Denevan‘s Outstanding in the Field dinner series is a cool oasis in the desert.
This season, the family-style culinary event—a sprawling dinner set across the series’ trademark winding table—will be held each night of both Coachella weekends, starting Friday, April 10. In the VIP Rose Garden overlooking the festival grounds, award-winning chefs from across the globe will present their craft to 2oo seated guests.
Just as music fans from around the world descend each spring, so to do those seeking innovative cuisines across Mexican, French, Japanese, and Filipino persuasions. James Beard award-winning chef Michael Beckman will kick off the series with dishes dedicated to local produce, followed by renowned Los Angeles chef Alan Sanz, who offers contemporary Oaxacan fare. To close the weekend, chef Jonathan Harris will serve a meal inspired by his Costa Rican and African American roots, featuring bold flavors reflective of both cultures.
Each chef will have the opportunity to pull from a vibrant array of local family farms, reflective of Denevan’s intention for Outstanding in the Field to serve as a champion of responsible land stewardship.
Weekend two, starting on Friday, April 17, will be kicked off by Charles Namba, an alum of famed New York hotspots including EN Japanese Brasserie and Chanterelle, before he developed LA sake bar OTOTO. On Saturday, guests will enjoy the collaborative work of chefs Donnie Masterton and Christian Herrera, who will combine their backgrounds in comfort food and Baja cuisine for a synergistic feast. Chef Nico de Leon will close the series on the final Sunday of the festival with a menu inspired by Filipino and Angeleno fare.
Visitors passing through Coachella Valley’s arid grounds may gather for the sonic delights, but this year, we’ll be staying for the one-of-a-kind culinary mix.
Festival passes and advance arrangements are required for each dinner. Purchase includes a welcome cocktail, four-course family style dinner, and exclusive access to the VIP Rose Garden. Tickets can be bought via AXS.
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