La Jolla's esteemed dining spot, George's at the Cove, is throwing a year-long fête to commemorate its 40th year since opening its doors in 1984. According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, a series of tasting menus crafted by several alumni chefs who have made waves in the culinary world will light up the establishment from this month until October.
The celebration starts with two sold-out events featuring Connor McVay, now executive chef of the Hotel Bel-Air, and Christine Rivera, who manages food services at The Bishop's School in La Jolla. "We have heavy hitters in the industry that started with us as line cooks," shared Trey Foshee, chef/owner of George's at the Cove, in a statement obtained by the San Diego Union-Tribune. The restaurant's story began in 1984 as a two-level operation at 1250 Prospect Street, and it wasn't until June 1991 that George’s expanded with the rooftop Ocean Terrace, altering the establishment's trajectory.
The journey of George's is touted by the restaurant's announcement, detailing a strategic plan focused on People, Product, and Environment. They describe numerous brainstorming sessions leading to innovations in the local San Diego dining realm and internally. For instance, Foshee cited the introduction of a vegetarian menu in 2009 and a 14-course tasting menu known as TBL3 in 2011, which added to the establishment's reputation for ingenuity.
Emphasizing the impact of the restaurant's past employees, the anniversary events will see an assembly of kitchen maestros. Among the guest chefs are Sam Peters, owner of SPK Bar Hospitality & Training, and Stephen Kurpinsky, U.S. brand ambassador for Mr. Black Spirits. The alumni will share center stage at a special dinner on March 16, where the tickets are going for $80 per person, including snacks and three featured cocktails, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune. Reservations for upcoming events in this series, including evenings featuring chefs like Christopher Kostow of Napa Valley's The Charter Oak and Anthony Secviar, owner of Protégé in Palo Alto, will open on February 21.
With a history that stretches back to the mid-'80s, George’s at the Cove tells a rich narrative through its kitchen – one that involves continuous growth, adaptation, and the cultivation of culinary talents that extend far beyond its initial footprint. For long-time patrons and new fans alike, the 40th anniversary of George's will be an event to remember, steeped in tastes that highlight the restaurant's legacy and its progressive approach to dining. Guests are encouraged to visit the restaurant's website for reservations and additional details.
