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There are tasting menus, and there are backyard barbecues. And then there’s Beefsteak, the annual carnivorous free-for-all that questions the very concept of moderation.
On Saturday, August 29 at 7pm, Redbird and Vibiana host the 11th edition of the beloved event, turning Downtown’s landmark former cathedral into a celebration of steak, strong pours and communal excess. This year’s feast also coincides with the 150th anniversary of the historic Vibiana building, giving diners another reason to loosen their belts (and their wallets).
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The biggest draw, however, is the arrival of legendary Italian butcher Dario Cecchini, whose Tuscan butcher shop has made him one of the world’s most recognizable champions of whole-animal butchery. VIP guests will get exclusive bites prepared by Cecchini, whose larger-than-life personality is nearly as famous as his beef.
Chef Neal Fraser will once again lead the evening alongside acclaimed chef Mary Sue Milliken and cohosts Matt Selman, Cort Cass, Eric Wareheim and Billy Harris. Expect towering platters of expertly cooked steak passed from diner to diner, surprise dishes, wine and cocktails, live entertainment and gleefully chaotic vibes.
The tradition draws inspiration from the lavish beef feasts popular in Florence and New York in the late 19th century, where mountains of meat were served family-style in communal halls. Redbird’s version swaps sawdust floors for soaring architecture but keeps the spirit intact: Come hungry and stagger out wondering whether you’ll ever need to eat again.
As indulgent as the evening promises to be, it also supports a worthy cause. A portion of proceeds will benefit Regarding Her, the nonprofit dedicated to helping women-owned food and beverage businesses grow and thrive.
Tickets are available now, with general admission priced at $350 and VIP admission at $450, which includes early entry and Cecchini’s exclusive offerings. It’s not an inexpensive night out—but if you’ve ever wanted to eat steak beneath the vaulted ceilings of one of Los Angeles’ most beautiful historic buildings while one of the world’s greatest butchers holds court, there really isn’t another event like it.
Redbird | Vibiana is located at 114 East 2nd Street. For more information and to RSVP, click here.