The Italian American Museum's 3rd Annual Taste of Italy

A. Trachta

For carb-lovers in Los Angeles, a great day is nearing. On October 1st, the Italian American Museum will host its 3rd Annual Taste of Italy at the 1869 Pico House and its cobblestone plaza. More than 50 restaurants will invade a tiny portion of L.A. for a day, but should pack big, authentic flavor and, of course, wine.

Italian American wineries from California and Italy will sample their wines, and also offer two wine seminars via the North American Sommelier Association: the Wines of Marche and the Wines of Piemonte. Classy stuff!

Expect local restaurants Toscanova, Il Fornaio and Locanda Del Lago to serve up some of their Italian goodness. Last year's event included the Ciao Bella truck, a one of our favorites.

"The event will feature numerous restaurants that have been awarded with Italy's highest culinary award, the Marchio Ospitalita'Italiana, a seal of authenticity, certifying the establishment's cultural-gastronomic authenticity," museum director Marianna Gatto said.

And if food and alcohol aren't enough, Joyce Garro and Lou Giovannetti, former Dean Martin Golddiggers, will perform and make you 'feel groovy.' Just FYI, their website is a must-visit.

The event is scheduled from 4 p.m.-10 p.m. on October 1st. Presale tickets are $45 (up $10 from last year) and $50 at the door. One ticket gets you six food and six beverage tickets. Proceeds from the event go toward the preservation of the downtown 1908 Italian Hall.