In the face of devastating wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles area and its surrounding areas, two culinary icons have stepped up to provide more than just sustenance—they’re serving hope and solidarity. Legendary chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger, celebrated for their trailblazing work in the kitchen and their generosity, have teamed up with World Central Kitchen to support evacuees, first responders, and others impacted by the crisis.
Since the fires began, Milliken and Feniger have prepared and served over 15,000 hot meals, with the numbers climbing daily as they respond to the community’s growing needs. Their tireless efforts exemplify the spirit of Palm Springs: resilient, innovative, and unyielding in the face of adversity.
A Culinary Legacy in Palm Springs
Fans of Milliken and Feniger may recognize them from their beloved restaurant, Alice B., a culinary gem that opened in December 2023. Situated within the stylish Living Out building just a short distance from downtown Palm Springs, Alice B. celebrates fresh, vibrant flavors that reflect the duo’s decades-long passion for innovative cuisine. The restaurant, their first-ever venture in Palm Springs, has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
However, in these challenging times, Milliken and Feniger have temporarily set aside their restaurant duties to focus on a greater mission: feeding those affected by the fires. Their SOCALO Border Grill Food Truck has become a vital resource, delivering meals to areas where they’re needed most. Whether stationed at evacuation centers or moving through fire-ravaged neighborhoods, the food truck has been a lifeline for those in need.
Celebrity Support and Community Solidarity
The chefs’ humanitarian efforts have garnered support from high-profile figures, including Julia Garner, Meghan Markle, and Prince Harry. These celebrities have joined the duo in serving meals and delivering aid, amplifying the sense of community and solidarity that has emerged in the wake of the disaster. Their participation highlights the critical importance of Milliken and Feniger’s work and underscores the power of collective action in the face of tragedy.
Four Decades of Culinary Excellence
Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger’s commitment to innovation and community is nothing new. For over 40 years, they have been at the forefront of American cuisine, pushing boundaries and redefining dining experiences. From their beginnings at Le Perroquet in Chicago to groundbreaking establishments like City Café and CITY Restaurant in Los Angeles, they have consistently set trends and elevated flavors. Their acclaimed Border Grill restaurants introduced modern Mexican cuisine to new audiences, cementing their legacy as culinary pioneers.
Food as a Force for Good
Today, Milliken and Feniger’s work during the fire crisis reaffirms their belief in the transformative power of food. In providing nourishment and comfort, they are not only addressing physical hunger but also feeding the spirit of a community in need.
Their efforts serve as a powerful reminder that, even in the darkest times, the human capacity for kindness and generosity can shine brightly. Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger are proving that a meal is more than just food—it’s a gesture of care, a moment of connection, and, ultimately, a source of hope.
