OC Meets Napa & Baja – Mission San Juan Capistrano – San Juan Capistrano

California’s largest Community Health Center, AltaMed is excited to announce a new fundraiser, OC Meets Napa and Baja, that will bring primarily Latino-centric restaurants and chefs in Orange County and Latino-owned wineries in Napa and Baja together in a unique celebration of culture and flavor. Co-chaired by Ruben Smith, Alvarado Smith Attorneys and Clemente Gonzalez, Aetna, the inaugural food and wine event will be held at Mission San Juan Capistrano on Saturday, July 18^th. Proceeds from all ticket sales will go toward supporting the Orange County programs that AltaMed spearheads in underserved communities.

‘We’re immensely grateful for the support the Orange County community has shown in supporting AltaMed’s work,’ said AltaMed CEO, Castulo de la Rocha. ‘We couldn’t be more thrilled to kick off an event that not only showcase the success and honor the contributions of these great chefs and vintners, but raise money to continue funding our essential, locally-based programs.’

Participants from the growing lineup include Food & Wine’s Best New Chef of 2015 Carlos Salgado, who will be sharing Chicano bites from the beloved Taco Maria; Chef Eric Samaniego, whose popular Little Sparrow restaurant has been gaining local and national accolades; and Chef Gabbi Patrick, who trained at the prestigious Greystone Culinary Academy in Napa Valley before opening Gabbi’s Kitchen, known for its modern take on traditional Mexican flavors and recipes. Additional restaurants guests will be able to sample include Anepalcos Café, Casa Oaxaca, Ricardo’s Place, Villa Roma, to name a few.

Complementing the array of flavorful bites will be sips from members of the Mexican American Vintner Association in Napa and Baja-based Latino vintners, highlighting their contributions to winemaking in both regions. Visiting Napa winemakers include Rolando Herrera, who worked construction jobs at various vineyards before pursuing a college degree in viticulture and opening Mi Sueno Winery, and Lupe Maldonado, who spent years working the area’s vineyards before purchasing his own ten-acre plot, now the home of eponymous Maldonado Vineyards. A curated selection of varietals from the up-and-coming Baja wine region will include Alximia Vino Elemental, Cava Maciel, Monte Xanic, Legado Ssis and more, providing guests with a unique glimpse into the tastes evolving from the peninsula.

In addition to the authentic food and exquisite wines, guests can explore the dedicated Napa and Baja pavilions there will be several bands showcased by Grammy Award winning music director, Jose Rizo, including his award winning group, Mongorama! Early Bird tickets ($100) are on sale now through the event website and general admission ($125) will be available starting June 8^th. For additional information, please visit www.altamed.org/ocmeetsnapaandbaja.