LA’s James Beard Highlight Reel: Dave Beran Dunking on Haters, Kato’s Historic Run and Providence Aging Like Fine Wine. Plus, Zach Brooks on 10 Years of the “Terrible Idea” That Became Smorgasburg LA.

Karen Palmer joins Luca to break down Los Angeles’ huge night at the 2026 James Beard Awards, including wins for Dave Beran, Providence and Kato, Holbox’s heartbreak, LA’s four-year Best Chef: California streak and what the results reveal about the city’s growing culinary dominance. They also trade recent eats from Mish Deli, Rustic Canyon, Cambria’s Sea Chest, Guelaguetza, Delicious Pizza, Estrano Verano and Maydan before debating the glamorous but isolating world of private chefs, Stephanie Breijo’s James Beard Media Award, Condé Nast’s lawsuit against the revived Gourmet and the New York Times giving its first four-star review outside New York.

Then, Smorgasburg LA General Manager Zach Brooks looks back on 10 years of the Sunday food market he initially called a “terrible idea,” its role in launching Tacos 1986, Bridgetown Roti, Bub and Grandma’s, Wanderlust Creamery and more, and the former vendors returning for its June 21 anniversary celebration.

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