The first European settlers in the Los Angeles area ignored the native food culture, but every wave of immigrants after that fused their cooking with the cultures that were already here. People from France, Italy, China, Mexico, Japan, Thailand, Korea, and other nations initially tried to recreate their home dishes here, but in time developed unique fusions that have become part of our shared national heritage.

Culinary historian Richard Foss will chart the waves of immigration to our city and explain the inspirations, accidents, and whimsical substitutions behind their greatest culinary successes. This fast-moving and humorous program is suitable for adults and children.