LABC Presents: Made in California: Iconic Restaurants Born in the Golden State

ABOUT THE BOOK: Beloved food historian and chef George Geary is back with even more remarkable stories of the countless international chains that started in the Golden State. 

Ruby’s Diner, Panda Express, Yogurtland, Wetzel’s Pretzels, The Cheesecake Factory, California Pizza Kitchen—these and many more iconic American culinary establishments have their roots in California.

Focusing on the years 1951 to 2010, the second volume of Made in California highlights fifty more food startups that have captured America’s hearts and stomachs, from the Claim Jumper to the Green Burrito, Chuck E. Cheese to Mrs. Fields Cookies, Jamba Juice to Bubba Gump Shrimp Company. Brimming with captivating historical detail and over 200 dazzling full-color photos, George Geary’s newest journey into California’s culinary history will awaken every reader’s inner foodie.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER: George Geary is a food historian, lecturer, and author of 17 books ranging from cookbooks to Los Angeles food history. George lectured on board Holland America Cruise Lines for nine years, visiting 119 countries and teaching on every continent. George has been featured on local and national TV programs, speaking about food, for the past 30 years. Publications including the New York Times and the LA Times have featured George and his expertise. Since 1990, George has conducted food tours of major American cities, such as the South of France and Italy. You can find George in his historical Mid-Century home in Palm Springs when not writing about food and preservation.

ABOUT THE CLUB: Founded in 1925, the Los Angeles Breakfast Club still thrives with food, friendship, and fun. Our meetings are held in our clubhouse, Friendship Auditorium, located at 3201 Riverside Drive, near the corner of Los Feliz Boulevard, in Griffith Park. Best described as a variety show, attendees enjoy a catered breakfast, silly songs, club traditions, and an interesting presentation from a guest speaker.

TICKETS: Sales on labreakfastclub.com close 48 hours before breakfast. Non-members are $28 and Members receive a 25% discount when logged into their Membership Portal.

Please arrive between 6:45 - 7:00 AM sharp! Doors close at 7:15 AM. Your admission includes a buffet breakfast, enjoyment of our 99-year-old club traditions, plus a special presentation from our Speaker of the Week!

For our ticket refund and exchange policy, please click here.

Note: Membership discounts are a benefit for members current with their dues. If you would like to apply to become a member, click here for more information.

HEALTH & SAFETY: Surgical disposable face masks or medical-grade masks (i.e., KN95, KF94, N95) are strongly recommended when not eating or drinking, especially during the cold and flu season, and will be provided on request.

ANIMALS: Only Service Animals as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act are allowed indoors at this venue. Please keep pets and emotional support animals safely at home.