(E. Mesiyah McGinnis/L.A. Sentinel)
(Ian Foxx/L.A. Sentinel) (Troy Tieuel/L.A. Sentinel)
Taste of Soul special guests and sponsors could walk just a few feet from cars parked in reserved spaces near the very center of the festivities to enter a cozy spot in the shade with cool lemonade and irresistible culinary delights.
This was the path for legendary stakeholders and cultural icons such as retired Congresswoman Diane Watson and the timeless actor Marla Gibbs, who respectively laughed and lounged in the VIP Tent. Watson and Gibbs were among the crowd enjoying the food, beverages, and the dance floor while the DJ provided danceable sounds.
The VIP cuisine was catered by California Fish Market founded by Shaune and Michael Ortiz in 2010 and the couple was first involved with Taste of Soul as a vendor in 2012. The VIP menu included catfish, filet of sole, chicken wings, chicken breasts, collard greens, yams, mac and cheese, black eyed peas and rice with cornbread. For dessert, they offered peach cobbler cake, banana pudding, and a lemon rosemary mini cupcake.
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California Fish Market owners pride themselves in homemade dishes including a special cornbread batter with special low-sodium ingredients. California Fish Market also had two additional booths at the Taste of Soul providing fish, shrimp and chicken.
Shaune Ortiz of California Fish Market shared, “I have a special place in my heart for Taste of Soul and we feel like we are part of the family. We have worked with Ms. Pamela Bakewell, Brandi, Amira, and Tamela, and they are so welcoming and kind. It’s personal for us. We are extremely passionate about our food and we love what we do.”
Mrs. Ortiz also added that the business is a family enterprise with her six sons and daughters who are all involved. Those working this weekend were Hal Lacey who handled desserts, displays and signage; Nena Ortiz, who was assistant chef; Leilah Ortiz, who handled cash and finance at the booths; and Michael Ortiz II, who cooked in one of two booths; and also with his brother, Giovonte Ortiz, managed both preparation and setup.
To reach California Fish Market and arrange soul food perfection or an array of seafood dishes such as alligator or frog legs at your next event please visit their website at https://www.californiafish.us to connect their staff. California Fish Market is bicoastal and national so look for them at your favorite festivals around the country.
The handcrafted lemonade flavors including lavender, peach, and watermelon were provided by Pucker Up™ Lemonade Company owned by Karneisha Christian. The store is located at 723 East Compton Blvd., in Compton and business hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 1p.m. to 5 p.m. Learn more on Instagram @PuckerUpLemonadeCo.
