Recipe for Change Fundraiser Dinner -
Japan House LA

Make Noise Today collaborated with Restaurant consultant and former restaurateur Andy Nakano. The event hosted award-winning chefs in Los Angeles for a fundraising dinner at Japan House Los Angeles. 

“As an Asian-American, there were times in my youth that I faced discrimination,” stated Nakano. “That is why it’s important to me to tell my story and bring not just Asian Americans but all diverse communities together to tell their stories and listen to others, which is what Make Noise Today is all about. What better way to bring people together for this important initiative than through sharing a collaborative meal of amazing food.”

The event included 12 award-winning chefs that prepared using the Japanese culture or a Japanese product to inspire their creation as part of the evening’s omakase menu:

Suzanne Tracht, Nancy Silverton, Susan Feniger, Mary Sue Milliken, Lisa Doumani, Hiro Sone, Preech Narkthong, Cathy Asapah, Vanda Asapahu, Katianna Hong, Akasha Richmond, Valerie Gordon

According to event co-host Julia Huang, President and CEO of Intertrend, “The lineup of mostly female chefs was a conscious decision because of the regressive gender dynamics and norms they have all had to deal with at some point in their careers. These dynamic chefs understand what it means to feel marginalized. We want to recognize their accomplishments and tell their stories alongside raising awareness for others. It’s a perfect collaboration with #MakeNoiseToday on diversity and gender gaps issues.”