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Siren Studios Hosts the Zagat 2012 Acura TL Launch

Sophisticated food, refined cocktails, sultry atmosphere, and a live soundtrack from DJ Johnny Knight set the stage for an elegant unveiling of the 2012 Acura TL at Siren Studios in Hollywood last month.

In an effort to create a cosmopolitan and trendy announcement, the affordable luxury car manufacturer partnered with Zagat to host launch events nationwide. Los Angeles was on the map of course, and the evening's affair took place at Siren Studios in Hollywood. The emanating theme of occasion was "aggressive flavors and the future of luxury tastes", which showed its true colors in the gourmet hors d'oeuvres and cocktails specially curated by some of the city's top chefs, restaurants and bars. The event set out to show the connectivity of various luxurious aspects in our every day lives.

The surrounding walls of Siren Studios were highlighted with hues of blue and purple light that hauntingly reflected off the sleek silver car ready and waiting for any interested attendee to sit behind the wheel. Partygoers flocked around the car, admiring its new design and comfortable interior and taking turns in the driver's seat.

As some attendees played pretend in the car, others made their way around the room sampling the event's food and beverage offerings. Two of Los Angeles' top bartenders, Allan Katz and Danielle Crouch, manned the bars stocked with the featured vodka of the evening, Moon Mountain. Specialty cocktail "Ain't Misbehavin'" combined chili-infused vodka, pineapple syrup, lime juice and a sprig of cilantro for a peppery sip. "The Holy Innocents" mixed vodka, spiced apple cider, lemon juice and bitters for those who favored sweet over spicy. Napa Valley's Acacia Vineyard poured glasses of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Along with cocktails, the buzzing crowd nibbled on a cheese assortment featuring Pont-l'Évêque, Roquefort, Smoked Gouda, Brie and appropriate edible accoutrements such as salted Marcona almonds, spiced brown mustard, honey and jars of French jams and confits.

The passed appetizers were a collection of globally and locally inspired cuisine from notable names. Chef John Rivera Sedlar of Rivera and Playa created Corn Custard with Peruvian Quinoa and Squash Blossoms, Blue Corn Tacos with Duck and Pumpkin Chutney, Spanish Piquillo Soup Parfaits and Yellow Maize Tostaditos with Brazilian Black Beans and Tropical Salsa. Chef Kuniko Yagi from Comme Ça served a Legume Salad, House Made Terrine, Fois Gras Parfait and Lobster Bisque with White Coffee. Late night sweets were straight from Pastry Chef Waylynn Lucas' bakery, Fonuts. Selected flavors included Rosemary Olive Oil, Chocolate Salted Hazelnut, Strawberry Buttermilk, Pumpkin, Chocolate (gluten free) and Lemon (gluten free and vegan).

Chrystal Baker is a the co-editor of The Duo Dishes and a freelance food and events contributor.

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