Los Angeles / Palm Springs, CA
In a time of crisis in Los Angeles, Palm Springs’ own legendary chefs, Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger, have answered the call for help, teaming up with World Central Kitchen to provide nourishment and comfort to evacuees, first responders, and others affected by the devastating fires sweeping through the area. This dynamic duo, known for their culinary prowess and generosity, has been working to serve hot meals to those in need, with over 15,000 meals prepared and served since the fires began. And the numbers continue to rise as they respond to the growing needs of their community.
Fans of the chefs may recognize them from their beloved restaurant, Alice B., located a short distance from downtown Palm Springs. Opened in December 2023, Alice B. marks the pair’s first-ever venture in Palm Springs, nestled within the lobby of the Living Out building. The newish eatery is a new culinary gem that honors the duo’s legacy while showcasing their passion for fresh, vibrant flavors.
But in the face of disaster, Milliken and Feniger have put their restaurant aside to focus on a greater mission. Their SOCALO Border Grill Food Truck has become a vital part of the community’s response efforts. The food truck moves throughout Los Angeles, providing meals on the go and offering a lifeline to those in need during the crisis. The team is operating in real time, adjusting their efforts to meet the urgent demands of the situation.
Their selfless work has attracted high-profile supporters, with celebrities such as Julia Garner, Meghan Markle, and Prince Harry joining forces with the chefs to assist in serving meals and delivering aid to those impacted by the fires. This outpouring of support highlights not only the importance of the duo’s work but also the broader sense of community and solidarity that has united people in the face of tragedy.
Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger are no strangers to overcoming challenges. For over four decades, they have been at the forefront of American cuisine, shaping the culinary landscape with their innovative and eclectic approach to food. From their time at Le Perroquet in Chicago to the opening of their groundbreaking restaurants like City Café and CITY Restaurant in Los Angeles, they have consistently pushed the boundaries of flavor and dining experience. Their critically acclaimed Border Grill restaurants, which introduced modern Mexican cuisine to new audiences, solidified their place in culinary history.
As they continue to serve thousands of meals in Palm Springs, Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger are proving that their dedication to community and compassion extends far beyond the kitchen. Their remarkable efforts during the fire crisis are a testament to the power of food to heal, nourish, and bring people together in times of need.
(Chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger)