San Diego, February 4, 2026
San Diego chefs Tara Monsod and Eric Bost, both nominated for the prestigious James Beard Award, will host exclusive dinner events featuring their exceptional culinary talents. Monsod will showcase her fusion of Filipino-American and French cuisine at Le Coq in La Jolla, while Bost aims to impress with refined French techniques at his Michelin-starred restaurant Lilo in Carlsbad. These events highlight the growing prominence of San Diego’s culinary scene, alongside other upcoming food festivals and competitions.
San Diego’s James Beard Award-Nominated Chefs Announce Special Dinners
San Diego, CA – Two local chefs, Tara Monsod and Eric Bost, both nominated for the 2026 James Beard Award, are set to host exclusive dinners to showcase their culinary talents.
Tara Monsod’s Upcoming Dinner
Tara Monsod, a three-time semifinalist for the James Beard Award, is planning a special dinner at her restaurant, Le Coq, in La Jolla. Known for her innovative fusion of Filipino American heritage and French cuisine, Monsod aims to offer guests a unique dining experience that reflects her award-nominated style.
Eric Bost’s Special Event
Eric Bost, executive chef of the Michelin-starred Lilo in Carlsbad, is also preparing a special dinner to celebrate his James Beard Award nomination. Bost’s culinary approach combines refined French techniques with California’s seasonal ingredients, promising a memorable evening for attendees.
Background on the James Beard Award Nominations
The James Beard Foundation announced its 2026 semifinalists on January 21, 2026. Tara Monsod and Eric Bost were recognized in the Best Chef: California category, highlighting their significant contributions to the culinary scene. Additionally, Realm of the 52 Remedies, a speakeasy in San Diego’s Convoy District, was named a semifinalist for Outstanding Bar. These nominations underscore San Diego’s growing prominence in the national culinary landscape, with local chefs and establishments gaining recognition for their excellence and innovation.
Upcoming Events in San Diego’s Culinary Scene
In addition to the special dinners hosted by Monsod and Bost, San Diego’s culinary community is preparing for several notable events:
- San Diego Food + Wine Festival’s Grand Decant: Scheduled for November 7, 2025, this event will feature a walk-around experience with food and beverage stations, showcasing a lineup of acclaimed chefs and luxury brands.
- Friends of James Beard Chef Invitational: Taking place from February 27 to March 1, 2026, this invitational will bring together top chefs for a weekend of culinary demonstrations and competitions.
These events reflect the vibrant and dynamic nature of San Diego’s food scene, offering residents and visitors alike the opportunity to engage with and celebrate the city’s rich culinary heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who are the James Beard Award-nominated chefs in San Diego?
Tara Monsod and Eric Bost are the two San Diego chefs nominated for the 2026 James Beard Award in the Best Chef: California category.
What are the special dinners being planned?
Tara Monsod is planning a special dinner at her restaurant, Le Coq, in La Jolla, and Eric Bost is preparing a special dinner at Lilo in Carlsbad to celebrate their nominations.
When were the James Beard Award nominations announced?
The James Beard Foundation announced its 2026 semifinalists on January 21, 2026.
What other events are upcoming in San Diego’s culinary scene?
Upcoming events include the San Diego Food + Wine Festival’s Grand Decant on November 7, 2025, and the Friends of James Beard Chef Invitational from February 27 to March 1, 2026.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| James Beard Award Nominations | Tara Monsod and Eric Bost nominated for Best Chef: California in 2026 |
| Special Dinners | Exclusive events hosted by Monsod at Le Coq and Bost at Lilo |
| Upcoming Culinary Events | San Diego Food + Wine Festival’s Grand Decant and Friends of James Beard Chef Invitational |
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