On a Thursday evening in late June, LA Magazine and Lexus hosted a Hidden Pop-Up Dinner at the Malibu Café at Calamigos Ranch and we were thrilled to be invited to the bash.

After quite a drive up the coast and a seriously curved canyon road, we arrived at the amazing venue to a beautiful meadow filled with large farmer tables and rustic charm.  The event featured a preview of the all-new 2014 Lexus IS and 2014 Lexus GS.

The delightful dinner under the stars started with a yummy summer salad made with red endive, yellow endive, radicchio, frisee’, shaved pecorino, apple, figs, walnuts, and herb-lemon vinaigrette, followed by an ambrosial truffle and red wine braised short rib served with parmesan polenta, lemon asparagus, and a truffle jus.  During dinner guests were entertained by the talented Paul Chesne Band.  The band played a mix of rock, funk and folk music including an amazing folk version of Daft Punk’s summer hit “Get Lucky.”

The wine featured with dinner was Saddlerock Chardonnay and Semler Cabernet Sauvignon.  Following dinner, guests were enraptured by a playful s’mores bar which included milk chocolate squares and cookies and cream chocolate squares, large fluffy marshmallows, mini marshmallows, and sprinkles.

Another highlight of the evening was the Maker’s Mark bar featuring two marvelous featured cocktails – Maker’s Mark Mint Julep (Maker’s Mark bourbon, simple syrup, mint leaves) and a Malibu Margarita (Karma Tequila infused with strawberries, jalapeños, and cucumbers).

The enchanting evening also featured artisan coffees and teas provided by Grand Avenue Coffee.