Chef's Table: A Day of the Dead Dinner

Join us at LA Cocina de Gloria Molina for an unforgettable evening that honors the cyclical nature of life and death through the profound traditions of Día de los Muertos. This exclusive four-course Pop-Up Chef's Table offers a deeply immersive experience that delves into the spiritual and cultural significance of this cultural celebration.

As our skilled chef prepares and presents each course, you'll witness the art and tradition behind every dish, thoughfully paired with Mexican Wines. The evening also includes a meaningful moment where we create an altar offering, setting the stage for a communal feast that invites reflection on cultural practices and their enduring relevance.

Picture yourself in a warm, inviting space filled with the soft glow of candlelight, the rich scent of marigolds, and the delicate flutter of papel picado overhead. Each dish is a work of art, rich with flavors that tell the story of our ancestors.

Reserve your seat at LA Cocina de Gloria Molina's Day of the Dead Dinner and join us for an evening of deep cultural connection and culinary excellence. Your plate at this special table is waiting.

This experience is curated by Dr. and Chef Claudia Serrato, Indigenous Culinary Anthropologist and Co-foundress of Across our Kitchen Tables.

Four Course Gormet Dinner

Indulge in a menu that pays homage to our rich culinary heritage, deeply rooted in Indigenous traditions, featuring:

• First Course: A vibrant, seasonally inspired appetizer using native ingredients and traditional cooking method, reflecting our ancestral roots.
• Second Course: A richly flavored entree that delves into the heart of indigenous culinary practices, showcasing authentic flavors and techniques that have been lovingly preserved.
• Third Course: A main dish that balances classic recipes with modern interpretations, offering a true taste of our diverse culinary landscape.
• Dessert: A sweet conclusion that embodies the spirit of Día de los Muertos, crafted with the intention of honoring our loved ones and their legacies.
• Beverage Pairing: Enjoy a carefully selected pairing of Mexican Wines--both red and white--that compliment and elevate the flavors of each course. These wines, chosen for their quality and connection to place, enhance the evening's experience.

Please note that in order to maintain the integrity of the chef's creations, we regret to inform you that no subsititions can be accomodated for the prix fixe menu. This policy ensures that each guest experiences the menu's full vision and culinary artistry.

Dr. Claudia Serrato (P’urhépecha/Zacateca/Xicana) is a distinguished culinary anthropologist, chef, and educator with expertise in Indigenous foods and traditions. Renowned for her advocacy of food sovereignty and contributions to preserving Indigenous foodways, Dr. Serrato seamlessly integrates scholarly research with practical culinary work to activate ancestral taste memory.
Holding a Ph.D. in sociocultural anthropology from the University of Washington, she has been featured in various media outlets, including television, radio, and podcasts. As a chef, Dr. Serrato specializes in creating dishes that honor and elevate traditional Indigenous Mesoamerican recipes, bringing cultural narratives to the table through her culinary artistry.
Dr. Serrato co-founded "Across Our Kitchen Tables," supporting women of color in food projects, and teaches at California State University Pomona and Dominguez Hills. Her approach blends academic insight with hands-on practice, fostering a deep appreciation for the cultural significance of Indigenous foods. Based in Los Angeles, she elevates Indigenous culinary arts through workshops, cooking classes, and speaking engagements, making her a leading voice in Native food justice.
Notable features and appearances of Dr. Serrato include:
- New York Times and New York Times Cooking Channel
- Telemundo (Inspirando a America)
- Los Angeles Daily News
- NPR (Good Food)
- TASTEMADE
- Smithsonian (Indigenous Voices of the Americas)
- ABC Primetime and HULU
- Natural History Museum
Dr. Serrato's dynamic work not only highlights the richness of Indigenous culinary traditions but also emphasizes the importance of food sovereignty and justice for Indigenous foods and communities.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

LA Plaza Cocina, 555 North Spring Street, Los Angeles, United States