Lupus LA's Inaugural Cuisine For A Cause Spring Dinner
A Night of Culinary Delights and Honored Achievements
By Tom Muller
Ishimori Award: Chef Michael Symon, Adam Selkowitz, Dr Mariko | Tiffany Rose for Lupus LA
On Sunday, May 19, 2024, the historic Vibiana in downtown Los Angeles was transformed into a gastronomic wonderland for Lupus LA’s inaugural Cuisine For A Cause Spring Dinner. Over 300 guests gathered for an evening of exquisite culinary experiences crafted by renowned chefs and to honor notable individuals for their contributions to the fight against lupus.
The event celebrated Chef Michael Symon, Adam Selkowitz, and Dr. Mariko Ishimori with prestigious awards. Chef Michael Symon, an Iron Chef and Emmy-winner, received the Loop Award for his culinary excellence and personal story of living with lupus. Adam Selkowitz, Lupus LA Founding Chairman and CEO of Waterfall Films, was honored with the Ellis Community Leadership Award for his unwavering commitment to lupus advocacy. Dr. Mariko Ishimori, interim director of the Division of Rheumatology at Cedars-Sinai Health System, was recognized with the Medical Visionary Award for her groundbreaking work in lupus research and patient care.
J. August Richards & Josh Gbor | Tiffany Rose for Lupus LA
Attendees included celebrities like Rashida Jones, Debbie Gibson, Joss Whedon, and Sharon Lawrence, who lent their star power to raise awareness and funds for lupus research and patient support services. The evening was emceed by the charismatic Billy Harris and featured live music by DJ Bettie Blue and violinist Conner Vance, creating a vibrant and engaging atmosphere.
Guests embarked on a culinary journey as they explored the various chef stations. Highlights included Chef Neal Fraser’s pork meatballs with green Thai curry, Chef Chris Bianco’s famous Rosa pizza, Chefs Katianna and John Hong’s acorn beignet, Chef Nakul Mahendro’s butter chicken, and Chef Vartan Abgaryan’s lamb belly shish. To conclude the meal, guests indulged in decadent desserts by three-time James Beard Award-winner, Chef Sherry Yard.
Jamila Jordan Theus & Donna Jordan | Tiffany Rose for Lupus LA
The evening's festivities included a live auction conducted by Billy Harris, featuring exclusive chef dinner experiences and luxurious weekend getaways. The event successfully raised significant funds to support Lupus LA’s mission of providing patient services, funding medical research, and advocating for those affected by lupus.
Founded in 2000, Lupus LA has raised over $14 million to date, impacting the lives of millions of lupus patients worldwide. The organization’s efforts have been pivotal in advancing lupus research, enhancing patient support services, and increasing global awareness through their celebrity ambassador program and initiatives like the “Your Story Our Fight” podcast.
Cuisine For A Cause exemplified the spirit of community and dedication that drives Lupus LA. The night not only celebrated culinary excellence but also honored the resilience and contributions of individuals fighting lupus. As the evening concluded, guests left with a deeper understanding of lupus and a renewed commitment to supporting the ongoing battle against this chronic illness.
For more information about Lupus LA and their initiatives, visit lupusla.org and follow their social media channels @LupusLA #LupusLA #CuisineForACause.