Kellyn Kawaguchi
Bring on the food coma, because this is the foodie event of your dreams. This Sunday, L.A. Weekly will host its annual food and wine event, The Essentials, with a new name, new downtown location and better restaurants than ever. Now christened in honor of our 99 Essential Restaurants special issue, the event will feature some of the top eateries in the city: Animal, Lucques, Hinoki & the Bird. We're talking 44 of our city's best chefs preparing delicious dishes, along with (for the first time) specially chosen wine pairings by Wally's Wine & Spirits. If you're interested in taking the first bite, you can purchase VIP tickets for an early entrance at noon; otherwise, prepare your taste buds along with everyone else for general entrance at 1 p.m. Although you must be 21 or older to drink, all ages are welcome to appreciate the culinary styling of the Los Angeles food scene. Tickets should be purchased in advance online, since it's not clear if there will be any left at the door. L.A. Mart, 1933 Broadway, 2nd floor; Sun., March 9, VIP entry at noon, general admission 1 p.m.; $45 general, $65 VIP. (310) 574-7380, laweekly.com/essentials.
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