LAT's Taste Announces Hosts; Jewish Cuisine Festival

LOS ANGELES— "The Taste" — the annual food event thrown by the Los Angeles Times — announced the line-up of "co-hosts" for its 2014 installment, set for August 29 to 31. Chefs Nancy Silverton, Thomas Keller, John Sedlar, and Michael Cimarusti will team up with LAT food editors and writers for a series of five events; bartender Julian Cox is also on-board. Tickets to each meal (including a "Field to Fork" brunch and a "Flavors of LA" tasting) range from $100 to $150 and are available here. [LAT]

NEW YORK CITY— Cultural heritage organization the Workmen's Circle will throw the first-ever Taste of Jewish Culture Festival in New York City on July 27. Grub Street reports the outdoor block party will feature food by the likes of Mile End, Shelsky's Smoked Fish, and the Pickle Guys, while recipe preservation group Beyond Bubbies "will roam the crowd with Workmen's crew of grandmas" to educate visitors about Jewish food. More information here. [Grub Street]

CASTING CALLS— The Taste — the ABC culinary competition that features Anthony Bourdain, Nigella Lawson, and Ludo Lefebvre — is still hosting open casting calls for its upcoming third season. Interested contestants can visit open calls in Boston and Chicago (both are scheduled for July 12), but are encouraged to pre-register. [EaterWire]