An unforgettable night at The Portofino Hotel & Marina’s Summer Solstice: An Around the World Food & Wine Festival was held on Friday, June 20, 2025, from 6 to 10 pm. This event truly lived up to its promise of a vibrant, globe-trotting celebration right on the stunning marina-side at BALEENkitchen in Redondo Beach, CA.
From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was electric—an exciting blend of luxury, culture, and good vibes. The newly redecorated BALEEN kitchen provided the perfect backdrop, with breathtaking sunset views over the marina creating a magical setting. The evening was a true feast for the senses, offering an eclectic lineup of dishes and wines from around the world.
Guests wandered through culinary stations featuring aromatic Asian spices, savory European classics, and fresh, exotic flavors from many other regions. Each dish was a masterpiece, expertly crafted to showcase the best of global cuisine. Pairing these delights with a selection of world-class wines made the experience even more special, offering a true taste of international sophistication.
One of the highlights was exploring the diverse cuisines represented from across the globe. The USA station offered mouthwatering Baby Blues BBQ, featuring smoked ribs, corn on the cob, and all the fixings, celebrating hearty American barbecue traditions. Over in Germany, the renowned Rockenwagner Bakery served their famous German pretzels and a variety of authentic breads and spreads, delighting guests with traditional flavors.
The Mexican culinary team from BALEEN/Portofino’s brought vibrant street tacos, zesty salsas, and rich moles that transported everyone to the lively markets of Oaxaca and Mexico City. The Pacific Asian section, featuring sushi from Smart Sushi LA and flavorful rolls that showcased the rich culinary traditions of Japan, with bold specialty rolls and sashimi that kept guests coming back for more.
Lantieri Franciacorta Cuvèe Brut D.O.C.G. from the Italian Region: Franciacorta, Italy stole the show with their 2022 Brut White Sparkling Wine. A classic expression of the Franciacorta style, this Cuvée Brut has depth and dry complexity. balanced savory character. Smooth and elegant finish
For spirits, Bulleit Bourbon was featured prominently, serving classic Old Fashioned cocktails that perfectly complemented the festive atmosphere. The Mexican spirits lineup was rounded out with Casamigos Tequila, adding a smooth, premium touch to the celebration.
This innovative dining event transformed the historic property into a global culinary playground, complete with a “passport” for guests to collect stamps as they traveled from country to country. The entire experience was a perfect blend of flavors, culture, and fun—making the evening truly unforgettable.
Overall, the Summer Solstice Food & Wine Festival was an incredible success—an evening filled with delicious bites, fine wines, stunning views, and unforgettable memories. If you missed it, don’t worry—this event is already on our radar for next year! We left feeling inspired, refreshed, and excited for the summer to come. Cheers to summer, good company, and the magic of the longest day of the year!
BALEENkitchen
260 Portofino Way,
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
310.372.1202
@portofinohotel
@baleenkitchenla