Renowned chef Evan Funke has been appointed to orchestrate the culinary experience for Netflix's prestigious Actor Awards, presented in collaboration with SAG-AFTRA. This significant event, scheduled for March 1st, will showcase Funke's celebrated Italian cuisine at the Shrine Auditorium & Expo Hall in Los Angeles, promising a night where gastronomic artistry complements cinematic achievement. Funke's selection underscores his prominent standing in the culinary world, building on his previous collaborations with Netflix and his consistent presence at high-profile events.

Funke, the creative force behind popular Los Angeles dining establishments such as Felix, Mother Wolf, and Funke, brings a wealth of experience to this role. His involvement marks another high-profile engagement for the chef, who has previously managed the menu for the exclusive Vanity Fair Oscar party since 2022. Expressing his enthusiasm, Funke stated his honor and delight in collaborating with The Actor Awards to develop a menu that mirrors the artistic excellence and collective talent celebrated throughout the evening. This sentiment highlights his dedication to harmonizing his culinary craft with the essence of the awards ceremony.

His previous ventures with Netflix include an appearance on the series 'Chef's Table: Noodles,' where he journeyed through Italy, delving into the traditional and often rare methods of pasta making. This experience showcased his deep respect for authentic Italian culinary traditions, a philosophy that will undoubtedly influence his approach to The Actor Awards menu. Guests can anticipate a refined selection of dishes, reflecting his signature style and commitment to quality.

The culinary journey designed by Chef Funke for the event commences with a pre-reception featuring a lavish caviar station, complete with Petrossian caviar, chives, and lemon. This will be accompanied by an assortment of passed antipasti, each meticulously prepared to reflect Funke's distinctive Italian culinary influences. Following the reception, a specially curated dinner will be served during the awards ceremony, promising a memorable dining experience for attendees.

The comprehensive menu includes a variety of exquisite options. The passed antipasti selection boasts 'Fiori di Zucca' (squash blossoms with ricotta fresca), 'Carciofi Fritt' (violetta artichokes), 'Bigné Cacio e pepe' (pecorino crema puffs), 'Supplí Alla Romana' (Carnaroli rice croquettes), and 'Indiva Ripiena' (endive with zucchini caponatina). For the main dinner, guests will enjoy a family-style 'Sfincione in bianco' (Funke's signature focaccia), followed by 'Insalata Vignarola' (a vibrant salad with roasted artichokes and seasonal vegetables), and 'Timballino Siciliano' (baked anellini pasta with eggplant and mozzarella).

Adding to the evening's offerings, the ceremony will also feature wines from Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants, the official wine sponsor of The Actor Awards. The selection includes their Artist’s Red Blend, Artist’s White Blend, Cooper’s Hawk Lux Pinot Noir, Cooper’s Hawk Lux White Meritage, and Rosé, alongside a unique Strawberry Elderflower Vivante!. Additionally, a bespoke Strawberry Rhubarb Gin Sour cocktail will be exclusively served in the backstage green room, enhancing the celebratory atmosphere. The 32nd Actor Awards will be hosted by Kristen Bell, with Harrison Ford set to receive a life achievement award, and Silent House Productions producing the event for the third consecutive year.

Chef Evan Funke's meticulous menu promises to elevate the gastronomic experience at Netflix's Actor Awards. From the initial caviar service and inventive Italian small bites to the thoughtfully designed multi-course dinner, every detail reflects a dedication to culinary excellence. The inclusion of fine wines and a signature cocktail further enhances the refined ambiance, ensuring a feast that is as memorable as the awards themselves, perfectly complementing an evening dedicated to celebrating outstanding talent in the acting world.