On May 16, the Lanterns & Vines Gala offers tastings showcasing chefs cooking in traditions from across Asia paired with some of the finest wines in the county produced by Asian-American vintners. A Taiwan-style night market theme promises a lively fundraiser for the Asian-American Pacific Islander Coalition of North Bay (AAPIC).
There has been a sea change in AAPI visibility in the North Bay over the last few years, from Vietnamese Lion Dances at public libraries to the variety of boba tea available throughout the county. Timed to Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, this event brings out our bold and beautiful Asian-American heritage in the most Sonoma County way possible—a gathering to enjoy fine food and wine.
A Santa Rosa-based non-profit that grew out from actions in 2021, AAPIC recently added its first two employees, Lisa Johnson-Foster and Erin Masako Wilkins. In conversation, the pair invited all to come enjoy this celebration of Sonoma County, which just happens to be hosted by AAPI residents of Sonoma County.
“We would like to emphasize this event is not just for the AAPI community,” said Johnson-Foster. “This event is for anyone who loves food and wine and who wants to experience something out of the ordinary.”
“It’s not just for us; it’s for everyone,” noted Wilkins. “I find that the more specific we get in our experiences, the more universal they become.”
The showcase is very much designed for that universal love of good food and drink in good company, drawn out by the specificity of the wildly diverse Sonoma County AAPI population.
“Lisa did a really great job of including a Fijian chef and a Nepalese chef,” observed Wilkins, “not just leaning back on the east Asian cuisine … that we have more access to.”
Wilkins said that AAPIC strives “to reach more and more of our community, especially the ones we don’t always see front and center.”
Enter the bustle of Taiwan’s night markets: Expect food stalls, games, a “Red Envelope Wall,” silent and live auctions and, of course, gala-level dancing. The community wants to be seen, to show up, and—throw in a master class demo by the original himself, perhaps the most famous Chinese cuisine chef in America, Martin Yan—maybe even show off a little.
“As a proud Filipino American, I am honored to pour … alongside such talented AAPI chefs and winemakers,” said Lise Asimont, co-founder of Dot Wines. “Events like this help elevate the visibility of our beautiful and diverse cultures, creating space for connection, celebration and a richer North Bay community.”
Michelle Wood, owner of Healdsburg’s Jimtown and Then Sum, said, “Lanterns & Vines isn’t just a gala; it’s a heartbeat for the Pan-Asian community here. I’m honored to be part of an evening that turns shared heritage into shared purpose and vital support for the AAPIC.”
The AAPI population of Sonoma County has risen from 2% to nearly 6% in just the last two years, and with that growth has come more visibility. There is a feeling of safety in numbers.
Johnson-Foster points out that the work is especially meaningful in places where racism is still prevalent. She added, “The more representation we have, the better.”
I told Wilkins: An event of this quality and breadth doesn’t feel like it’s about Asian representation so much as it’s about Asian expression.
Wilkins responded with, “Oh, I actually love that; that tickles my mind to think about.” She paused and then added, “I think there’s an authenticity and ease in that expression.”
It’s like that when one is home.
Lanterns & Vines will feature a cooking demo from chef Martin Yan of ‘Yan Can Cook.’ Stay for the auctions, dancing and boba nightcap. Tickets and premier tables can be purchased at aapicnorthbay.org/lanternsandvines. 5:30 to 10pm, Saturday May 16, Friedman Event Center, 4676 Mayette Ave., Santa Rosa. 21+.
