Extremely knowledgeable and entertaining, best-selling author and renowned educator George Geary kept the audience in stitches with his fascinating tales about the culinary world in his latest book, LA’s Landmark Restaurants: Celebrating the Legendary Locations Where Angelenos have Dined for Generations on October 11, 2023, at The Virginia Robinson Gardens. The Friends have been very fortunate to have George speak at the Gardens twice before about his previous two books, LA’s Legendary Restaurants and Made in California.
Our wonderful President Lynn Whitaker, standing in for Education Chair Adrienne Horwitch, warmly welcomed the guests as they mingled and enjoyed mimosas.
She then introduced George. The first award-winning pastry chef at the Walt Disney Company and an author of 16 books, he also worked on many TV series, including Golden Girls where he made all the cheesecakes on the show. George said, “I was very fortunate to have worked for eight years as a chef onboard Holland America Line Ships. I traveled to 118 countries on every continent.” In addition, he has an award-winning tour company that takes groups on food adventures in Europe and major cities in America. He has been the culinary coordinator for almost 20 years for the LA County Fair.
George’s new book is a treasure trove of vintage and contemporary photographs and recipes from around 60 restaurants in Los Angeles. In addition to a short history of the restaurant, George states the name of the company, the years it was open, the location, original and current phone numbers, type of cuisine, the name of the founders, and what it is currently. For instance, in the case of the fabled Mocambo, it has become a real estate office. “I love architecture, helping save buildings, and doing research,” he explained.
George mentioned classic eateries with much history that sadly are no longer there. The Pacific Dining Car closed after almost 99 years. Greenblatt’s and Sardi’s also closed as well as The Bistro. However, some multi-generational restaurants such as El Coyote (three generations), Canter’s Deli (five generations), Philippe The Original (four generations), and El Cholo (seven generations) are still here. The latter has been here for 100 years. George had many entertaining anecdotes about them. Past President Patti Reinstein said, “George again regaled us with ‘insider information’ from some of LA’s earliest restaurants giving us a glimpse into the shady characters of the past, the families, the feuds and where to still get a great sandwich.”
In addition to beloved establishments such as Nate ‘n Al’s, Valentino, Musso & Frank Grill, and The Apple Pan, George showcased lesser-known restaurants such as Joe Jost’s in Long Beach which has the best mustard pickled eggs, and George Petrelli’s Steak House in Culver City. Founder of the Friends Joan Selwyn said, “George Geary’s personality lit up the Pool Pavilion as he told us colorful stories about the culinary world. Learning from George is like experiencing your favorite and most delicious dessert.”
After the captivating lecture, the attendees sat at tables near the Display Rose Garden. Even in October, the pink and red roses were in full bloom, providing a beautiful backdrop for the luncheon. Cheerful yellow sunflower centerpieces, arranged by Lynn, contrasting with royal blue tablecloths charmed the guests.
A delicious luncheon was catered by chef John Robinson of JR Party. Chilled sweet corn soup and a Tuscan-roasted chicken breast with an orzo salad were served. A refreshing lemon sorbet with berries and chocolate chip cookies provided for a sweet finale.
George also signed his book for the group.
As Patti so aptly commented, “The day was perfection… stimulating conversation, a delicious repast in the Rose Observation Deck set with royal blue tablecloths, punctuated by bunches of bright yellow sunflowers that were only to be outdone by the azure sky and sparkling citrine sun. It was the kind of day that reminds us of why we all live here.”
A big thank you to Lynn for organizing such a delightful and enriching day and to Adrienne who selected the wonderful lecture by George. The Friends are also grateful to our very special Member Relations and Administrative Manager Barbara Remedios and Superintendent Diane Sipos who help make all our events sparkle and run ever so smoothly.
Post and photos by Linda Meadows
Friends of Robinson Gardens Board Member
Editor of the Happenings
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