On April 21, Michael’s Santa Monica at 1147 3rd St. reached its 45th anniversary milestone with a celebratory party giving back to a worthy cause, that being the organization No Kid Hungry, dedicated to ending childhood hunger. Taking part in the celebration were a multitude of chefs who have called Michael’s home over the years, giving guests a true taste of Santa Monica and beyond.
Led by Michael’s current Executive Chef, Jōb Carder, the top-tier list of chefs included local standouts like Sang Yoon of Father’s Office, Brian Bornemann of Crudo e Nudo, Kazoo Matsusaka of Chinois on Main and Matt Schaler of Birdie G’s. The best of the Los Angeles area also joined the festivities, including Nancy Silverton from Osteria Mozza, Brooke Williamson from Playa Provisions, Mikey Stern from the Sunset Tower Hotel, Wendy Roskin from Book Soup and Olivier Rousselle from the Luxe Hotel.
With the A-list culinary experts in the building, guests were treated to a selection of creative dishes at the various chef’s stations. Dishes ranged from Yoon’s Tom Kha Kai Custard and Chicken Crunchy Mushrooms and Herbs, to Stern’s Chicken Liver Mousse and a Blueberries and Ice Wine Gastrique. Outside of the stations, Michael’s staff came around with trays of delicacies like oyster shooters, champagne caviar and truffle mushroom pizza. To down the meals, guests were given several options of wine and cocktails, including a 2016 Pinot Noir from founder Michael McCarty’s family vineyard, The Malibu Vineyard.
Michael’s quickly became a local favorite in Santa Monica and throughout Los Angeles after being founded by McCarty in 1979, opening the restaurant at the age of 25. Known for its California cuisine and plates inspired by local produce, Michael’s has been a historic partner for the Santa Monica food scene, including being an early supporter in the creation of the Santa Monica Farmers Market.
In the decades since opening, Michael’s has become a true family affair, as McCarty’s wife Kim played a crucial role in curating a personal collection of artwork to hang throughout the restaurant. The couple’s son, Chas, has worked at the restaurant for the past decade to attract young culinary talents.
"We are incredibly proud to be celebrating this very special moment in our restaurant’s history, and are humbled to have such a talented and accomplished group of chefs join us for this occasion," Michael and Kim McCarty said of the 45th anniversary event. "It has been the joy of our lives cooking for and serving our guests over these 45 years. Here’s to another 45!"
Along with celebrating food, the event made sure that the joy of dining was shared with vulnerable citizens, with proceeds going toward the No Kid Hungry campaign. Run by nonprofit Share Our Strength, No Kid Hungry launched in 2010 as a child hunger organization that provides funding for school meal programs, operating a summer meals program and increasing the number of children enrolled in programs like SNAP and WIC.
The Michael’s celebration continues on both coasts for 2024, as the McCarty’s second location in midtown Manhattan will have its 35th anniversary take place in November. For more information on the Santa Monica location, visit michaelssantamonica.com
thomas@smdp.com
