This fall, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, the AAA Five-Diamond resort, is set to host an exclusive series of three dinners, aptly named "Gourmet Gatherings," in collaboration with four James Beard Outstanding Chef Award winners past and present. Hosted at the resort's exclusive Wine Cave, this partnership will showcase the talents of these renowned chefs, bolstering the resort's reputation as a premier dining destination.

 The first-of-its-kind dinner series will commence on Friday, September 13 with the acclaimed Chef Nancy Silverton, followed by Chef Rob Rubba and Chef Michael Rafidi on Friday, October 11, and culminating with Chef Michael Anthony on Saturday, November 2. Each event promises to be an unforgettable culinary experience, highlighting the innovative and exquisite cuisine that has earned these prominent culinary talents’ national acclaim. 

 About the Featured James Beard Outstanding Chef Award Winners:

• Chef Nancy Silverton (2014 Winner): A culinary icon and founder of La Brea Bakery and the acclaimed Mozza Restaurant Group, Chef Nancy Silverton has been a trailblazer in the culinary world. She was awarded a James Beard Award® for  Outstanding Chef in 2014 and is renowned for her exceptional talent and passion for artisanal bread and Italian cuisine.

• Chef Rob Rubba (2023 Winner): Chef Rob Rubba is the visionary behind Oyster Oyster in Washington, D.C., a restaurant celebrated for its sustainable and plant-forward approach. He was awarded the James Beard Award®  for Outstanding Chef in 2023 and Oyster Oyster was also honored as a James Beard Award Nominee®  for Best New Restaurant in 2022, recognizing his innovative and sustainability-focused culinary practices. 

• Chef Michael Rafidi (2024 Winner): Chef Michael Rafidi, another culinary star from Washington, D.C., is the creative force behind Albi, where he showcases modern Levantine cuisine. He was awarded the James Beard Award® for Outstanding Chef in 2024 and was also honored as a James Beard Award Nominee® for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic in 2023.

• Chef Michael Anthony (2015 Winner): As the Executive Chef of Gramercy Tavern in New York City, Chef Michael Anthony has garnered widespread acclaim for his refined and seasonal cuisine. He has won multiple James Beard Awards and is known for his commitment to local sourcing and sustainability. Michael Anthony was recently named Chef Partner of Waldorf Astoria New York.

Situated on the oceanview bluffs of Dana Point, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach offers a luxurious retreat with breathtaking ocean views, world-class amenities, and unparalleled service. At each dinner, guests will embark on an epicurean adventure starting with an intimate welcome reception, followed by an exquisite multi-course dinner meticulously crafted by the featured chef. Hosted for one night only, guests will be enveloped in the renowned Wine Cave, a fully-functioning cellar that holds the Resort’s full inventory of 10,000 bottles. 

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit .waldorfastoriamonarchbeach.com/gourmetgatherings.